Pneumatosis intestinalis with a focus on hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Hyperbaric Medicine

Background:

• Pneumatosis intestinalis is a rare condition characterized by air within the bowel wall.
• It is frequently secondary to other underlying medical conditions.
• Diagnosis is typically achieved through radiological imaging, primarily computed tomography (CT) scans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic criteria and severity indicators of pneumatosis intestinalis.
• To explore current and emerging treatment modalities for this condition.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for pneumatosis intestinalis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pneumatosis intestinalis diagnosis and management.
• Analysis of predictors for poor outcomes, including laboratory values and imaging findings.
• Assessment of treatment outcomes, focusing on hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Main Results:

• Severity ranges from benign to life-threatening, with predictors of poor outcomes identified (e.g., low pH, elevated lactate, portal venous gas).
• Established treatments include bowel rest, antibiotics, and surgery.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is presented as a safe and effective alternative for non-emergent surgical cases, with no reported complications.

Conclusions:

• Early identification of severe pneumatosis intestinalis is crucial for timely intervention.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy demonstrates a high success rate and an excellent safety profile for treating symptomatic pneumatosis intestinalis when immediate surgery is not indicated.