The Baromedical Research Foundation

Basic Science Interest

Foundation researchers have investigated the problem of oxygen toxicity, as well as the effects of hyperbaric oxygen on both tumorgenesis and tumor growth 1. The objective of this research has been to improve patient safety by better identifying disease specific risk-benefit ratios for hyperbaric referrals.

Studies of hyperbaric oxygen's effect on selected fungal infections were undertaken during this same period 2.

Other research sought to determine the potential benefit of post-operative (surgical decompression) hyperbaric oxygen therapy in compartment syndrome. Early data suggests improved functional outcome 3.

In 1999 researchers concluded their investigation of the problem of hyperoxia-induced congestive heart failure. This is an occasional complication in patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen treatments. Its precise mechanism is unclear. It is difficult, therefore, to identify those who might be at risk. Consequently, potentially helpful prophylactic strategies are not always employed. Through an exacting model, painstakingly incorporated into the hyperbaric environment, Foundation scientists have made important contributions to our knowledge of its underlying mechanism 4.

  1. Williams RB, Greene FL, Pettigrew FC, Ross MR, Hornug CA, Assad A. Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen On Induced Colon Cancer In Rats. Association for Academic Surgery 25th Annual Meeting, Colorado Springs, Colorado, November 20-23, 1991.
  2. Garcia-Covarrubias L, Barratt DM, Bartlett R, Van Meter K, Ghaffar A. Hyperbaric Oxygen And Amphotericin B In The Management Of Mucormycosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial In The Murine Model. Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine 2002: 29(2) S.
  3. Bartlett R, Garcia L, Nickels M, Stroman R, Piepmeir E, Brown J. The Use Of Hyperbaric Oxygen In The Treatment Of A Rabbit Compartment Syndrome. Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine 2002: 29(2) S.
  4. Abel FL, McNamee E, Cone DL, Clarke D, Tao J. Effects Of Hyperbaric Oxygen On Ventricular Performance, Pulmonary Blood Volume, And Systemic And Pulmonary Vascular Resistance. Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine 2000: 67 - 73.