What Researchers Did
Researchers reported a case of a 31-year-old man with CO poisoning who experienced convulsive seizures and pulmonary edema during his second HBOT session in a multiplace chamber.
What They Found
The seizure was managed with IV propofol and the HBOT session was terminated. Chest X-ray revealed bilateral pulmonary edema. Echocardiography showed normal heart function, suggesting the edema was from HBOT-related CNS toxicity triggering neurogenic pulmonary edema. The patient recovered fully with no delayed neurological effects.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
CNS oxygen toxicity causing seizures is a recognized but rare risk of HBOT, especially in multiplace chambers. Canadian hyperbaric units should have protocols and emergency medications ready for this complication. This case also demonstrates that pulmonary edema after a seizure during HBOT is likely neurogenic, not cardiac.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
This is a single case report from Japan; the exact incidence of seizures and pulmonary edema in Canadian hyperbaric settings may differ based on protocols, patient selection, and monitoring practices.