Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Japan, Now and in the Future

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Diving Medicine
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) principles date back to ancient times.
• Empirical knowledge of treating decompression sickness (DCS) in divers is documented as early as 4,500 BC.
• DCS became recognized as a disease with advancements in diving and construction technologies (caissons).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the established indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in Japan.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of HBOT based on clinical experience.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical and modern applications of HBOT.
• Analysis of clinical data from HBOT treatments at Nippon Medical School.
• Focus on emergency room and general medicine contexts.

Main Results:

• HBOT is an established component of recompression therapy.
• Oxygen administration is beneficial for conditions arising from rapid decompression.
• The author's experience highlights the practical application and effectiveness of HBOT.

Conclusions:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy remains a crucial treatment modality.
• HBOT is indicated for specific conditions, particularly those related to pressure changes.
• Further clinical evaluation supports the efficacy of HBOT in emergency and general medicine.