In addition, as oxygen tensions increase, leukocyte migration and oxidative killing are enhanced. Hyperoxia enhances phagocytosis and white cell oxidative killing, and has been shown to enhance aminoglycocide activity. Recent research has demonstrated a prolonged post-antibiotic effect, when hyperbaric oxygen is combined with tobramycin against Pseudomonas aeroginosa. Improving tissue oxygenation with HBO 2 optimizes the healing environment, resulting in normalization of healing. The most recently discovered mechanism, much of the damage associated with reperfusion is brought about by the inappropriate activation of leukocytes.
Hyperbaric oxygen reduces the indirect component of injury by preventing such activation.
The net effect is the preservation of marginal tissues that may otherwise be lost to ischemia-reperfusion injury. HBO 2 decreases bubble size and increases the diffusion gradient of embolized gas. There is no alternative therapy. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Smoke Inhalation HBO 2 hastens carboxyhemoglobin dissociation and markedly reduces permanent neurologic damage. HBO 2 reduces the need for amputations and brings rapid cessation of alpha-toxin production, which is a lethal complication of gas gangrene.