Preoperative hyperbaric oxygen therapy for radiation induced injuries.

Abstract

We present our experience with preoperatively administered hyperbaric oxygen therapy to patients who have sustained significant therapeutic radiation induced soft tissue injuries and subsequently undergo planned abdominal intervention/surgery. From February 1993 to May 1997, 5 patients with a history of complications following therapeutic radiation were prospectively treated with hyperbaric oxygen before a planned abdominal operation. All patients had uneventful hospital courses. An additional procedure was eventually necessary in 2 patients but with fewer radiation related problems following hyperbaric oxygenation. Hyperbaric oxygenation may improve postoperative outcomes when given before planned open operations in patients with previous therapeutic pelvic irradiation and a history of radiation related complications.