PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Campbell MacFarlane
AU  - Frans J Cronjé
AU  - Carol-Ann Benn
TI  - Hyperbaric Oxygen in Trauma and Surgical Emergencies
AID  - 10.1136/jramc-146-03-06
DP  - 2000 Oct 01
TA  - Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps
PG  - 185--190
VI  - 146
IP  - 3
4099  - http://militaryhealth.bmj.com/content/146/3/185.short
4100  - http://militaryhealth.bmj.com/content/146/3/185.full
SO  - J R Army Med Corps2000 Oct 01; 146
AB  - Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO), that is the administration of 100% oxygen delivered under pressure, has a beneficial effect in several surgical conditions. Its use has been assessed and audited and its pharmacological effects demonstrated. It is appropriate for use in several acute surgical conditions as evidence-based therapy. These are: Gas GangreneCrush Injuries, Compartment Syndromes & Acute Traumatic IschaemiasEnhancement of Healing in Selected Problem WoundsExceptional Bloodloss AnaemiaNecrotising Soft Tissue InfectionsCompromised Skin Grafts & FlapsThermal Burns HBO therapy suffers from previous inappropriate use, lack of knowledge, and scarce hyperbaric facilities. Hyperbaric therapy, when properly supervised by a physician trained in its use, working closely with a surgeon, and ethically used for appropriate indications, can be a useful adjunct to surgical practice. Military surgeons may be in a situation in which they can utilize HBO in acute surgical conditions and trauma. They are urged to identify HBO facilities, both fixed and portable, and to establish communication with hyperbaric therapy colleagues.