What Researchers Did
Researchers retrospectively reviewed medical records of 75 critically-ill patients in Padua, Italy, to assess the safety of transporting them for hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) at a stand-alone facility between 2003 and 2013.
What They Found
The 75 critically-ill patients received a total of 315 hyperbaric oxygen treatment sessions, with 192 sessions involving intubated and mechanically ventilated patients. Full recovery was observed in 73 patients (97.3%), and two deaths occurred, neither closely related to the HBOT.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study suggests that with meticulous monitoring, efficient transport, and well-trained personnel, critically-ill patients can safely receive HBOT even if it requires transport to an off-site facility. This could potentially expand access to specialized hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Canadian patients in critical care settings, provided robust transport and monitoring systems are in place.
Canadian Relevance
This study was conducted in Padua, Italy, and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a retrospective, single-center study, its findings may not be generalizable to all critically-ill patient populations or different healthcare systems.