A textbook may sometimes gain the unusual trait of longevity beyond all other books -  it can be revised and remain a primary source of information for generations of students. Hyperbaric Medicine Practice seems destined to become such a book.

This 4th edition, edited by Harry T. Whelan, pays tribute to its original author, Dr. Kindwall, who died in 2012. It also adds new information of interest to all in the field of diving and clinical hyperbaric medicine. Most chapters have been written or revised by new authors, but many have returned to update their chapters.

New chapters include indications for hyperbaric oxygen treatment subjects recently approved for treatment such as idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss and central retinal vein occlusion. There are also chapters on submarine rescue and problems that pertain to technical and rebreather diving.

This book will be an important addition to the library of physicians in clinical hyperbaric medicine and those involved with divers—recreational, commercial, and military—as well as other professionals who care for them.

- comments by Henry J.C. Schwartz, MD, FACP

New Information and Updates in the Fourth Edition

Indications for the Use of HBO2

- Completely re-written chapters on basis for HBO2 therapy of Radiation Necrosis and Burns

- New clinical trial data for traumatic brain injuries

- Tabulation of almost all published cases of hyperbaric oxygen used for refractory osteomyelitis and the new CPT codes needed for reimbursements

- Updates on the multiplace hyperbaric chamber with monitoring and provisions for critical care and carbon monoxide emergency

- A new complete description of the multiplace hyperbaric chamber as a medical device

- Improved illustrations and better clarification for the use of hyperbaric oxygen for crush injuries

- Totally new chapter on the role of hyperbaric oxygen for fracture management

- Complications and Contraindications for the Use of HBO2

- Completely re-written chapter on the contraindications and relative risks, and the management recommendations 

- Completely re-written chapter on complications and the management recommendations 

- Updated details on use of medications and indications for myringotomy

The Science of HBO2

- Additional basic science and clinical data regarding HBO2 management of infectious diseases

- Completely re-written chapter on basis for HBO2 therapy of Infectious Diseases

- Updates on mechanism of action of HBO2 and preconditioning

- Added human and animal literature section utilizing hyperbaric oxygen for brown recluse spider bite

- Re-written evidence-based recommendations for use of hyperbaric oxygen for brown recluse spider bite

- New innovative research developed in Brazil when the first lines of hyperbaric medicine therapy history in South America were written.

- Introduces challenging questions to readers including: Should we try HBO2 for Hansen’s disease in present day? Is there any better way to increase oxygen toxicity against Mycobacterium leprae than methylene blue?

- All new hyperbaric oxygen mechanism chapter complimented by exceptionally well-illustrated figures

- New approach to appreciating the mechanisms of hyperbaric oxygen with primary effects that occur immediately and secondary effects that are long standing and generally require repetitive treatments

- In-depth discussion about the physiological, cellular and molecular response to exogenous ketone supplementation and ketogenic diet

- New section on pharmacokinetic disposition of drugs in HBO2

New section on antibiotic interactions

Updated literature on pharmacodynamics interactions

Fully updated discussion on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in pediatrics including risks and benefits, practical considerations, indications and controversies and oxygen administration schedules

Discussion of latest information on pediatric disease indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy and current controversies

Updated recommendations for pediatric psychological preparation and sedation