Point-of-care ultrasound in a multiplace hyperbaric chamber

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Hyperbaric Medicine
• Critical Care

Background:

• Electronic devices are typically prohibited during hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy due to fire risks in oxygen-rich, pressurized environments.
• Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a valuable imaging tool in various clinical settings.
• Critically ill patients in hyperbaric chambers could benefit from real-time assessments using POCUS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of using an off-the-shelf handheld POCUS system within a clinical hyperbaric environment.
• To overcome previous limitations requiring specialized equipment modifications for POCUS use during HBO2 therapy.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an unmodified, off-the-shelf handheld POCUS system (SonoSite iViz).
• Tested the POCUS system within a clinical hyperbaric chamber setting.
• Assessed device performance and safety under hyperbaric conditions.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated proof of concept for POCUS use in a hyperbaric environment.
• Confirmed the safety of the off-the-shelf POCUS system during HBO2 therapy.
• Showcased the successful performance of the handheld POCUS device without modifications.

Conclusions:

• An unmodified, off-the-shelf handheld POCUS system can be safely and effectively used in clinical hyperbaric settings.
• This facilitates real-time patient assessment during hyperbaric oxygen therapy, improving critical care capabilities.
• Overcomes previous safety and equipment modification barriers for POCUS integration in hyperbaric medicine.