Contraindications

Patients are carefully assessed by our medical staff before starting hyperbaric treatment. During this initial evaluation, patient medical histories are carefully reviewed and the patient is informed of any potential complications. Our medical providers will thoroughly explain the benefits and any potential risks associated with your treatment.

Below is a chart showing some of the documented conditions that might prevent a patient from being a candidate for HBOT. Some of these conditions are absolute, meaning hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be avoided, while others are relative, meaning they may require additional attention, or treatment before starting therapy.

Absolute Contraindications

Absolute Contraindication	Reason Contraindicated	Necessary Condition Prior To HBOT
Untreated pneumothorax	Gas embolism; Tension pneumothorax; Pneumomediastinum	Thoracostomy
Bleomycin	Interstitial pneumonitis	No treatment for extended time from use of medication
Cisplatin	Impaired wound healing	No treatment for extended time from use of medication
Disulfiram (Antabuse)	Blocks superoxide dismutase, which is protective against oxygen toxicity	Discontinue medication
Doxorubicin (Adriamycin)	Cardiotoxicity	Discontinue medication
Mafenide (Sulfamylon)	Impaired wound healing	Discontinue and remove medication

Relative Contraindications

Relative Contraindication	Reason Contraindicated	Necessary Condition Prior To HBOT
Asthma	Air trapping upon ascent leading to pneumothorax	Must be well controlled with medications
Active Cancer	Unknown effect of hyperbaric oxygen on cancer cells	No active cancer at time of treatment
Claustrophobia	Anxiety	Treatment with benzodiazepines
Congenital Spherocytosis	Severe hemolysis	None; HBOT for emergencies only
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)	Loss of hypoxic drive to breathe	Observation in chamber
Eustachian tube dysfunction	Barotrauma to tympanic membrane	Training, PE tubes
High fever	Higher risk of seizures	Provide antipyretic
Pacemakers or epidural pain pump	Malfunction or deformation of device under pressure	Ensure company has pressure-tested device and learn to what depth
Pregnancy	Unknown effect on fetus (Previous studies from Russia suggest HBOT is safe.)	None, but HBOT may be used in emergencies
Seizures	May have lower seizure threshold	Should be stable on medications; may be treated with benzodiazepines
Upper respiratory infection (URI)	Barotrauma	Resolution of symptoms or decongestants

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