Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Arterial Gas Embolism
Gas bubbles in the arterial circulation — from diving, surgery, or vascular procedures. A UHMS-approved hyperbaric emergency.
Typical Protocol
How HBOT Helps
Recompression mechanically reduces bubble size and restores blood flow; hyperbaric oxygen re-oxygenates downstream tissue and speeds gas resorption.
What to Know
Immediate recompression is the standard of care. Hospital-based multiplace chambers are typical.
Review the primary literature on PubMed →Centers Treating Arterial Gas Embolism
49 centers in our directory report treating this condition. 14 are UHMS-accredited (shown first).
Before You Book — What to Verify
- Chamber type: approved indications need a clinical hard-shell chamber (2.0–3.0 ATA), not a mild soft-shell unit.
- Whether a hyperbaric-trained physician supervises treatment.
- Insurance coverage and pre-authorization for this indication.
- UHMS accreditation status of the facility.
- That the recommended pressure and session count match the protocol above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HBOT FDA/UHMS-approved for Gas embolism?
Yes. Arterial Gas Embolism is one of the indications approved by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for it is generally eligible for insurance coverage when criteria are met.
What pressure and how many sessions does Gas embolism typically need?
Standard-of-care protocols typically run at 2.8–6.0 ATA (Treatment Table 6/6A) for about 1+ (emergent). Your physician sets the exact protocol based on your case.
How does hyperbaric oxygen help with Gas embolism?
Recompression mechanically reduces bubble size and restores blood flow; hyperbaric oxygen re-oxygenates downstream tissue and speeds gas resorption.
How many directory centers list Gas embolism?
49 centers in our directory report treating Gas embolism, of which 14 are UHMS-accredited. Always confirm directly with the center.
Other Conditions
Educational information, not medical advice. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy decisions — especially for emergencies and the conditions above — must be made with a qualified physician. Approved-indication status follows the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society Committee Report; protocols are typical ranges, not prescriptions.