1. Description of Department
The Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Department is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions caused by exposure to high-pressure environments, such as those encountered during underwater diving, and therapeutic hyperbaric oxygen treatments. The department utilizes advanced hyperbaric chambers and cutting-edge diagnostic technology to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Staffed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, the department focuses on delivering exceptional patient care, conducting innovative research, and educating both medical professionals and the public about diving and hyperbaric medicine.
2. Mission of the Specialty
The mission of the Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Department is to provide top-tier medical care for individuals with conditions related to diving and hyperbaric oxygen therapy through comprehensive and evidence-based treatments. The department aims to advance medical knowledge in these fields, enhance patient outcomes, and promote safety and preventive measures in diving practices. Through continuous research, education, and clinical excellence, the department strives to be a leader in diving and hyperbaric medicine.
3. Scope of Services Offered
a. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Utilizes a pressurized chamber to deliver 100% oxygen to patients, enhancing the body’s natural healing processes. Conditions treated include carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, chronic non-healing wounds, radiation-induced tissue damage and others FDA approved indications of HBOT. But in this time, we are covering Emergencies 7/24.
b. Treatment of Decompression Illness (DCI)
Immediate and specialized care for decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism. Treatments include re-compression therapy and supportive care in a controlled hyperbaric environment.
c. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Emergency management using HBOT to expedite the elimination of carbon monoxide from the body, reducing potential long-term damage to the brain (as, delayed neuropsychiatric syndrome sequelae) and other organs.
d. Medical Evaluation for Divers
Comprehensive physical examinations to ensure divers are fit for diving. This includes cardiovascular assessments, pulmonary function tests, and overall health evaluations to prevent diving-related injuries. All types of diving medical fitness (initial – periodic – after any diving injury’s – after any medical or surgical illness) we can provide it.
4. Patient Education
The Diving and HBOT Section is committed to patient education, providing resources and information to enhance understanding and self-management of diving-related conditions. Educational materials, and counseling are offered to empower patients and their families.
5. Multidisciplinary Collaboration
We emphasize collaboration with other medical specialties. Our team holds regular multidisciplinary meetings to discuss complex cases, ensuring the development of optimal treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
6. Research and Innovation
Active participation in clinical research and collaborates with academic institutions and industry partners. These efforts are focused on advancing the understanding and treatment of diving accidents and various indications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
7. Quality Improvement
We prioritize continuous quality improvement through regular assessments of patient outcomes, adherence to best practices, and stringent safety measures. Our section participates in comprehensive quality assurance activities, including peer reviews, audits, and monitoring of outcomes related to diving and HBOT.
8. Emergency and Inpatient Consultations
The Diving and HBOT Section provides prompt and expert consultations for emergency and inpatient cases. Our expertise covers the management of Arterial Gas Embolism (AGE), carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, and other diving-related emergencies.
9. Telemedicine Services
To enhance accessibility and accommodate patient needs, the section offers telemedicine consultations when appropriate, ensuring continuity of care and facilitating follow-up appointments.
