A study to determine the incidence of otitic barotrauma during hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Abstract

Context: Barotrauma is caused by the difference in pressure between the air-containing spaces of the ear and the outside environment. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the incidence of otitic barotrauma during hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Setting and Design: A prospective study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital setting. Materials and Methods: All patients planned for HBOT were clinically assessed for Eustachian tube function by pneumatic otoscopy. Patients undergoing HBOT were subjected to otoscopy, and the tympanic membrane of these patients was evaluated before and immediately following the session of HBOT. These changes were correlated with other variables of the patient such as age, underlying illness, comorbidities, and general condition. Analysis: Data collected were analyzed using appropriate statistical means to determine the level of correlation. Results: Of the 100 conscious patients, 19 (19%) had otitic barotrauma. Of those, 31.6% had Grade I otitic barotrauma, 47.4% had Grade II otitic barotrauma, and 21.0% had Grade III otitic barotrauma. Risk factors for otitic barotrauma were pressure equalization problems. We found no influence of age, sex, or comorbidities on the occurrence of barotrauma. Conclusions: Difficulties in pressure equalization were the only risk factors for middle ear barotrauma. Age, sex, or other comorbidities did not affect the incidence of otitic barotrauma.