JAMMU: The Hyperbaric Society of India, in collaboration with Apollo Hospital is committed to raising awareness about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), a revolutionary medical treatment that has grown significantly in the past decade. As part of the 25th-year celebrations of the Hyperbaric Society of India, we aim to educate the public and healthcare community about the benefits, applications, and safety protocols associated with this cutting-edge treatment.
What is Hyperbaric Medicine?
Hyperbaric medicine involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which enhances the body's natural healing processes. The increased pressure allows oxygen to dissolve more effectively into the bloodstream, promoting faster recovery in patients with conditions such as chronic wounds, infections, carbon monoxide poisoning, and certain neurological conditions.
HBOT has been recognized for its ability to improve healing in non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, and has shown promise in treating radiation injuries, infections, and even traumatic brain injuries. With hyperbaric centers expanding across India, this therapy is now available not only in major cities but also in Tier II and Tier III cities.
Key Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT):
Faster Wound Healing: Particularly effective for patients with chronic, non-healing wounds.
Enhanced Recovery: Supports recovery in trauma, burns, and post-surgical healing.
Neuroprotective Effects: Shows potential in treating neurological conditions like traumatic brain injuries.
Reduced Inflammation: Hyperbaric therapy helps reduce inflammation and promote tissue regeneration.
Why the Need for Awareness?
Despite its remarkable potential, many patients and even healthcare professionals remain unaware of the full scope of hyperbaric therapy’s benefits. There is also a pressing need for safety regulations, certification, and standardized practices in administering hyperbaric treatments, which the upcoming International Conference in Hyperbaric Medicine will address.
Challenges in Hyperbaric Medicine:
Lack of Regulation: The rapid expansion of hyperbaric centers has led to the use of uncertified equipment and untrained practitioners in some regions. This poses risks to patient safety.
Cost of Treatment: The high cost of certified equipment and trained personnel makes it difficult for some patients to access this therapy.
Unregulated Growth: Without proper oversight, some clinics may offer incomplete or inappropriate treatments, compromising patient care.
Conference Focus on Safety and Standards
At the International Conference in Hyperbaric Medicine (October 4-6, 2024, at The Suryaa, New Delhi), leading experts will discuss critical safety standards, regulatory frameworks, and best practices for hyperbaric therapy. Workshops and presentations will cover topics such as equipment safety, clinician certification, and patient care protocols, ensuring that the growth of hyperbaric medicine in India is both safe and effective. The meeting has attracted over 50 doctors in this field and representatives from the industry, both within India and globally, with 31 papers being presented by doctors from across the country.
Key Conference Highlights:
Workshop by Mr. Andrew R. Melnyczenko: Focused on safety standards in hyperbaric therapy, addressing the importance of proper equipment and protocols to prevent accidents.
Keynote by Dr. Helen Gelly: Modern wound management and emerging indications for HBOT, highlighting the therapy’s potential for non-healing wounds.
Special Session: Exploring the future of hyperbaric medicine in India, including discussions on regulations, insurance, medical devices, and clinical best practices.
Historical Context and Leadership in Hyperbaric Medicine
The first private hyperbaric unit was established at Apollo Hospital in 1999, treating thousands of complex patients with excellent results. Under the leadership of Prof. (Dr) Tarun Kumar Sahni, significant strides have been made in the field, including reimbursement approvals from many insurance companies. His efforts have led to hyperbaric equipment being included on the Medical Devices list for 2022 released by the CDSCO. Dr Sahni is regarded as a pioneer in hyperbaric medicine and has fuelled the exponential growth of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the country.
Join the Movement Towards Safer and Effective Hyperbaric Treatments
The Hyperbaric Society of India calls on healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public to be part of this movement to standardize hyperbaric medicine practices. Through collaboration, education, and regulatory improvements, we can ensure that more patients across India benefit from safe and effective hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
