Authors (including presenting author) :
Suen HK(1), Tang KB(1)(2), Yan WW(1)(2)
Affiliation :
(1) Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Centre, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, (2) Department of Intensive Care Unit, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Introduction :
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a well-established treatment for various medical conditions, including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, delayed radiation injuries and chronic non-healing wounds, etc. Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) started HBOT services in September 2018, becoming Hong Kong's first hospital-based facility. The PYNEH HBOT Centre serves patients from various specialties using multiplace and monoplace chambers.
Objectives :
This study aims to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics of patients receiving HBOT at the PYNEH HBOT Centre over a six-year period and to explore the potential expansion of HBOT services to meet increasing demand.
Methodology :
A retrospective analysis was conducted on patient records from October 2018 to December 2024. Data were collected on patient demographics, clinical indications for treatment, treatment protocols and complications. Inclusion criteria encompassed all patients who underwent HBOT during this period, while exclusion criteria included cases that were referred but did not commence treatment. Statistical analyses were performed to assess service utilization and patient complications.
Result & Outcome :
1,099 patients were studied. There were 709 males (64.5%) and 390 females (35.5%), with an average age of 55 years. There were 14,751 patient visits. The most common treatments at PYNEH were carbon monoxide poisoning (35%), delayed radiation injuries (28%), and central retinal artery occlusion (13%). Compared to international data, the top conditions were delayed radiation injuries (32%), problematic wounds (15%), and carbon monoxide poisoning (14%).
207 patients (19%) were critically ill and needed intensive care support. Of these, 152 (73%) were intubated, and 151 had carbon monoxide poisoning. PYNEH HBOT Centre uses specialized equipment like ventilators and monitors to support critically ill patients.
In 2023, 122 complications were reported among 253 patients. Middle ear barotrauma and temporary vision changes were common issues. Middle ear barotrauma is a well-known complication of HBOT. To treat middle ear issues, procedures like myringotomy can be performed.
This study highlights the increasing need for HBOT in Hong Kong, especially for emergency cases. Strategic planning is necessary to meet this growing demand.
