Air or Gas Embolism
Air or gas embolisms are caused by gas bubbles in the arteries and/or capillaries caused by accidental air injection from dialysis, catheter placements, endoscopy, or various surgical procedures such as cardiopulmonary bypass. These bubbles cause reduced blood flow resulting in poor oxygen delivery to the body which may be life-threatening.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the primary treatment for this covered condition because of its ability to:
Reduce or dissolve the bubbles to enable oxygen to get the deprived areas of the body.
Improve circulation and blood supply.
Prevent mortality and long-lasting neurological and physical impairment especially post-cardiac operations where the air bubbles obstruct cerebral arteries.
Reduce swelling that may occur from blood vessel leakage caused by the bubbles.
WHEN TO REFER TO HYOX:
Immediately, post embolism.
