[Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in experimental necrotising pancreatitis (author's transl)]

In the last years non operative and surgical efforts could not diminish the high lethality of severe acute haemorrhagic necrotising pancreatitis. While majority of patient die in consequence of pancreatitis-shock, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) can improve all hypoxic circulation situations. Therefore the value in treatment of experimental necrotising pancreatitis in pig is examined. 5 pigs were treated with, 5 without HBO and 5 served as control. With HBO liquid sequestration was diminished and total protein loss prevented significantly, but foremost survival time was significantly prolonged. In consequence demarcation of necrosis with connective tissue was possible, but nevertheless operative treatment remain necessary. Without HBO all pigs and with HBO only 2 pigs died in consequence of necrotising pancreatitis. It is demonstrated, that HBO as additive therapy can improve the prognosis of necrotising pancreatitis.