Acute Ischemias
Air or Gas Embolism
Air or gas embolism occurs when gas bubbles enter the bloodstream and obstruct arterial flow, often during diving, surgery, or catheter procedures. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an FDA-approved primary treatment: increased pressure shrinks the bubbles while 100% oxygen speeds nitrogen washout, restoring circulation to oxygen-deprived tissue.
Evidence Level A Standard of Care
Treatment protocol
Protocol
Pressure
2.8 – 3.0 ATA
Duration
90 min
Sessions
1 – 3 (emergency)
Frequency
Continuous until stable
Evidence basis: UHMS / Emergency Standard
References:
See full citations on the references page.
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