Cannellotto M, Yasells García A, Landa MS. Hyperoxia: Effective Mechanism of Hyperbaric Treatment at Mild-Pressure. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Jan 8;25(2):777.
Hyperoxia, the condition of having an excess of oxygen in the tissues, is a key mechanism in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), even at mild pressures.
Mechanisms of Action
- Increased Oxygen Delivery:
- Under hyperbaric conditions, the solubility of oxygen in plasma increases significantly. This allows for greater oxygen transport to tissues, even those with compromised blood flow.
- Enhanced Wound Healing:
- Oxygen is essential for collagen synthesis and cellular metabolism, both crucial for wound healing. The elevated oxygen levels facilitate these processes, promoting faster recovery.
- Reduction of Inflammation:
- Hyperoxia can modulate inflammatory responses. Elevated oxygen levels help reduce edema and inflammation by promoting vasoconstriction and decreasing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Angiogenesis:
- The therapy stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, improving oxygen delivery to ischemic tissues. This angiogenic effect is particularly beneficial in chronic wounds and tissue repair.
- Neuroprotective Effects:
- In neurological applications, hyperoxia may enhance neuronal recovery and protect against oxidative stress, aiding recovery in conditions like traumatic brain injury and stroke.
- Antimicrobial Effects:
- Hyperbaric environments can inhibit the growth of certain anaerobic bacteria and enhance the efficacy of antibiotics, making HBOT valuable for treating infections, especially in diabetic ulcers.
Mild-Pressure Considerations
- Accessibility: Mild-pressure HBOT is often more accessible and less resource-intensive than high-pressure therapy, making it a practical option for outpatient settings.
- Patient Tolerance: Patients typically tolerate mild-pressure treatments better, experiencing fewer side effects while still benefiting from hyperoxic conditions.
Conclusion
Mild-pressure HBOT harnesses the principles of hyperoxia to facilitate healing, reduce inflammation, and improve overall tissue recovery. Its mechanisms of action make it a valuable therapeutic approach for various conditions, particularly in enhancing recovery from injuries and chronic wounds. Further research will continue to clarify its optimal applications and long-term benefits.