The Main Problem with HBOT is Barotrauma

It is well established that the most common problem for patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is the difficulty in equalizing middle-ear pressure during the compression phase of a treatment. If not dealt with properly, this pressure imbalance can produce physical injury (barotrauma) and cause some patients to reject further treatments. Although an ear squeeze can be properly managed manually, the time required can have significant adverse impact on HBOT schedules.

SMOOTH RIDE Is The Solution to Barotrauma

In 2003, ETC launched SMOOTH RIDE, a pressure-change technology to significantly reduce the incidence of middle ear barotrauma during compression, and to more effectively manage patients with COPD during decompression. SMOOTH RIDE was designed subsequent to research conducted by the U.S. Air Force on curvilinear profiles showing that incorporating SMOOTH RIDE technology reduces the incidence of barotrauma by approximately 67%. The result of the same on curvilinear profiles physical principles, make decompression safer for patients with COPD, emphysema, and asthma.

The Response to SMOOTH RIDE

The response to SMOOTH RIDE in clinical utilization of the ETC BARA-MED series of chambers in the U.S. and abroad has been resoundingly positive. Facilities now using ETC chambers with SMOOTH RIDE have reported that it has all but eradicated their compression-related ear problems.

The Payoff

While implementing the pressure-change protocols used in ETC’s SMOOTH RIDE technology, significant reduction of patient rejection and improved operational timelines is achieved.