Hyperbaric Veterinary Medicine's (hvm) statement regarding the use of human acrylic hyperbaric chambers in veterinary medicine

BOCA RATON, Fla., April 5, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- A fire occurred inside a Seachrist monoplace human chamber being operated in a north Georgia veterinary facility. HVM offers condolences to the owners of the dog whose life was lost in the incident. See link below.

http://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/i-team/109338585-story#.Vu1UggXlI40.mailto

Fire investigators determined that a lithium battery operated fan was placed inside the chamber during treatment and also that the animal was wearing a leather collar with a metal buckle while in the chamber. Investigators ruled the incident as an accident.

In the interests of preserving the efficacy of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in the veterinary field, HVM would like to reiterate the recommendation that ALL veterinary hyperbaric operators be trained in hyperbaric oxygen chamber operation and related fire safety. This training should be SPECIFIC to the treatment of animals in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. As is referenced in the news report of this incident, HVM reiterates that animal chambers should be manufactured for animal use and NOT re-purposing human monoplace chambers for such use.

As is the case with any medical equipment, a hyperbaric oxygen chamber is a specialized medical device and as such requires specific operational training. Working with increased oxygen percentage and increased pressure, along with treating a patient who cannot communicate with an operator, results in a situation that requires education (on the hyperbaric oxygen environment) and knowledge of multi-species animal behavior and health.

The application of HBOT for our pets is a safe, effective and non-invasive treatment modality that is proving to be miraculous. We must ensure that our industry learns from this incident and, through education, prevents another.

The National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology offers an animal specific certification in the application of hyperbaric therapy and hyperbaric chamber operation. The CHT-V (Certified Hyperbaric Technologist-Veterinary) is available to qualified individuals who meet the pre-requisites and pass a board exam.

www.nbdhmt.org

Media Contact: Jason Kokotoff, 561-988-9695, [email protected]

SOURCE Hyperbaric Veterinary Medicine (hvm)