Which treatment is recommended for AGE in a hyperbaric chamber?

The recommended treatment for arterial gas embolism (AGE) in a hyperbaric chamber involves compressing the patient to a mid-range depth, specifically around 60 feet of seawater (FSW). This is beneficial because it helps reduce the volume of bubbles in the bloodstream and allows for the safe and efficient absorption of gases like nitrogen that might have been released into the tissues or bloodstream.

At this depth, the pressure increases the solubility of gases in the blood, encouraging the nitrogen bubbles to dissolve into the plasma instead of remaining as expanding bubbles that could cause further harm. Proper compression is crucial in managing AGE, as it directly addresses the underlying issue of gas bubbles obstructing blood flow and potential tissue damage.

In contrast, increasing to 80 FSW may result in additional risks without effectively addressing the embolism. Maintaining surface pressure will not provide any therapeutic benefits for AGE, as the patient remains at normal atmospheric pressure where the gas bubbles can continue to expand. Decreasing to 30 FSW would not be effective either, as the lower pressure could lead to worsening of the gas embolism by allowing the gas to expand instead of promoting absorption into the bloodstream. Thus, compressing to 60 FSW is both a critical and effective measure in the