Air or Gas Embolism Treatment with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
An air or gas embolism — gas bubbles trapped in the bloodstream — is a medical emergency. HBOT uses pressure physics to shrink the bubbles and restore circulation to vital organs.
Same-week appointments available
Call to Discuss Your Condition (989) 320-4434No referral required · Medicare & most insurance accepted
Understanding Air or Gas Embolism
An air or gas embolism occurs when gas bubbles enter the bloodstream and travel to blood vessels where they block circulation. This can happen during certain medical procedures (such as surgery, central line placement, or lung biopsy), diving accidents, or traumatic injuries involving the chest or blood vessels.
When gas bubbles obstruct blood flow to the brain, heart, or lungs, they can cause stroke-like symptoms, cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, or other organ damage. The severity depends on the volume and location of the trapped gas.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
HBOT is the definitive treatment for air or gas embolism. Increasing the ambient pressure inside the hyperbaric chamber causes the gas bubbles to shrink according to Boyle's Law (as pressure increases, gas volume decreases). This reopens blocked blood vessels and restores blood flow.
Simultaneously, breathing 100% oxygen at pressure accelerates the reabsorption of the remaining gas from the bubbles into the blood and tissues. HBOT also delivers oxygen to areas of the body that were temporarily deprived, reducing the extent of tissue injury.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment for air or gas embolism is emergent. HBOT is administered as soon as the patient can be safely transferred to the chamber. Treatment protocols may involve extended sessions at higher pressures than used for other conditions.
Insurance & Coverage
HBOT for air or gas embolism is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most major private insurance plans when medically necessary. Our team handles insurance verification and prior authorization so you can focus on healing.
Our team handles the paperwork so you can focus on healing. We will verify your benefits, obtain any required prior authorizations, and keep you informed every step of the way.