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Is decompression illness possible during hyperbaric therapy? a case report
C Gariel1, B Delwarde1,2, S Beroud3
1Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.
Summary
A patient experienced severe shock after hyperbaric oxygen therapy due to a gastric band causing barotrauma and gas embolism. Deflating the band resolved symptoms, highlighting the need for awareness of gastric band history before therapy.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Hyperbaric Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂) therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber.
- Patients with implanted medical devices require careful consideration before undergoing HBO₂ therapy.
- Gastric bands are adjustable devices used for weight loss, placed around the stomach.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old woman developed severe hypotensive shock post-HBO₂ therapy.
- The shock was linked to gastric barotrauma and venous gas embolism.
- A filled gastric band/cuff prevented gas escape during decompression, causing the barotrauma.
Findings:
- Deflation of the gastric band led to complete symptom resolution.
- Two subsequent HBO₂ sessions were tolerated without adverse events.
- The patient was discharged on Day Three with full recovery.
Implications:
- Physicians must inquire about gastric band history before HBO₂ therapy.
- Gastric barotrauma and venous gas embolism are potential risks associated with HBO₂ in patients with gastric bands.
- Awareness and pre-therapy screening are crucial to prevent serious complications.
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