HBOT for Crush Injury & Compartment Syndrome

UHMS-approved for acute traumatic ischaemias — crush injury, compartment syndrome, acute peripheral arterial insufficiency.

HBOT Hub — http://localhost:3003/conditions/crush-injury · Printed October 11, 2026 · UHMS approved · Emergency care · Acute

GRADE Evidence Rating

Bouachour 1996 double-blind RCT showed strong benefit for Gustilo III crush injury. Replicated across smaller trials.

Overview

HBOT is a UHMS-approved indication for acute traumatic ischaemias including crush injury, compartment syndrome, and threatened limb viability. The elevated oxygen tension overcomes ischaemic hypoxia in compromised tissue, reduces oedema via vasoconstriction, and limits reperfusion injury.

How HBOT Works

HBOT reduces reperfusion injury (a major mechanism of post-ischaemic tissue damage) via anti-inflammatory effects. Mild vasoconstriction reduces oedema while elevated plasma oxygen maintains tissue oxygenation despite reduced flow. Enhanced neutrophil function reduces infection risk in open injuries.

Clinical Protocol

Standard protocol: 2.5 ATA sessions, 90 minutes with air breaks. Three sessions in the first 24 hours (every 6–8 hours), then daily for 7–14 days depending on clinical course. Coordinated with surgical team.

Cautions & Considerations

Typical protocol	3 sessions in first 24 hours at 2.0–2.4 ATA, then daily
Evidence level	Moderate — UHMS approved
FDA / regulatory status	FDA-approved indication

Must be initiated urgently (within 24 hours) for maximum benefit.
Does not replace surgical decompression — adjunct to standard trauma care.
Patients may require ventilator support — multiplace capability often needed.

Key Research

Indexed studies

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Am I a candidate for HBOT for this condition given my medical history and current treatments?
What pressure (ATA) and session count would you recommend, and why?
Is treatment at this centre UHMS-accredited? What is the chamber type (monoplace or multiplace)?
What is the expected response rate and typical timeline for improvement?
What are the specific contraindications and side-effect risks in my case?
What is the expected cost and insurance coverage status?
What alternative or complementary treatments should I consider?
How will we measure whether treatment is working?