A TRANSPORTABLE HYPERBARIC CHAMBER WITH SODA LIME FOR THE TREATMENT OF HIGH-ALTITUDE DISORDERS

A transportable hyperbaric chamber called the Gamow(TM) bag has been r eported to be effective in the treatment of high-altitude disorders in the alpine field. The problem with this device is that the operator h as to endure a considerable amount of physical exercise to prevent car bon dioxide accumulation in the bag and to supplement the consumed oxy gen. To solve this problem, we have applied soda lime with a respirato ry circuit. In preliminary experiments, pumping twice per minute was d emonstrated to be sufficient to maintain the appropriate internal cond itions of the bag for 90 min. Using this system, the amount of exercis e by the operator could be reduced to approximately 10% of the origina l value. Following the experiments, this system was practically used i n the treatment of high-altitude disorders at Mustagata and at Mt. Cro wn (Xinjang, China). Three patients with acute mountain sickness were successfully treated using this system. Considering further possible a pplications, this compact system is thought to be worthwhile to carry together with the Gamow bag in alpine expeditions.