Abstract

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy is a medical treatment method based on breathing 100% oxygen from a mask, hood placed over the head, endotracheal tube, or space at pressures higher than (1 atmosphere absolute =760 mmHg) in completely closed single or multi-person hyperbaric chambers. The most common emergencies in which HBO therapy is used are carbon monoxide poisoning and decompression sickness. However, acute traumatic ischemias such as crush injury and compartment syndrome that cause tissue hypoxia are among the indications for effective HBO therapy. This review aims to share general information about HBO therapy and its use in crush injury and compartment syndromes. Thus, the role of HBO therapy in reducing morbidity and mortality when used together with necessary surgical and medical treatments has been emphasized.