Laptop-style point-of-care ultrasound machines in the multiplace hyperbaric oxygen treatment chamber

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has diverse uses in the critical care hyperbaric (HBO₂) environment. The use of electronic devices in a multiplace HBO₂ chamber has traditionally been limited secondary to fire risk.

The primary outcome was to assess the feasibility of modern laptop-style POCUS machines in a multiplace HBO₂ chamber. A secondary aim was to assess the reliability of POCUS images obtained at different pressures in a human subject in a multiplace chamber. Testing was initially conducted with one older machine (Sonosite 180 and Sonosite Micromaxx). Subsequently, two newer machines were studied (Sonosite Edge II and Mindray M9). Machine and transducer reliability were tested by performing a battery of POCUS imaging sequences: cardiac, FAST, inferior vena cava, and thoracic. The POCUS cardiac sequences evaluated included 2D, color Doppler, and M-mode.

Regarding feasibility, all machines functioned well at all depths/pressures. No instances of fire or spark were observed. No surface temperatures above 1200F were recorded. Regarding reliability, all machines performed adequately and completed the entire imaging sequence.

This study demonstrates the HBO₂ chamber safety of four laptop-style POCUS machines: Sonosite 180, Sonosite Micromaxx, Sonosite Edge II, and the Mindray M9. Our results also demonstrate excellent functionality of the newer Sonosite Edge II and Mindray machines. Secondarily, the reliability of POCUS images obtained at different pressures in a human subject has been verified.