HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY (HBOT) AS THE TREATMENT OF PROLONGED HYPOXEMIA DUE TO COVID-19

Abstract

Background - hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a clinical method of treatment with oxygen while under increased atmospheric pressure. It has been proven as an independent therapeutic factor for a number of diseases, and in the case of COVID-19, its potential as an adjuvant therapy is still being studied. Case report – in the case of a 61-year-old man with severe pneumonia resulting from infection with COVID-19 and persisting hypoxemia and dyspnea after the acute phase. Prescribed continuous oxygenation in home conditions due to deteriorating general condition and quality of life. Undertaken additional hyperbaric oxygen therapy resulting in significant improvement after the 20th session. Conclusion - the connection between HBOT and improved paraclinical and imaging indicators, in this case, suggests conclusions of a therapeutic effect of HBOT in hypoxemia as a post-COVID symptom.