Abstract
PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify independent risk factors for middle ear barotrauma (MEB) symptoms in patients undergoing monoplace hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed data from a single-center study involving 296 patients who received monoplace HBOT. Through multivariable logistic regression analysis, we examined the relationship between various factors and the occurrence of MEB to identify significant independent risk factors. RESULTS: The multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that an altered mental state was associated with increased odds of MEB occurrence [odds ratio (OR) 2.50; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13-5.51]. Furthermore, patients in the emergency treatment group for HBOT, as defined by the national health insurance in Korea, were found to be 6.75 times more likely to experience MEB (95% CI: 1.33-34.20). CONCLUSION: This study identified altered mental status and classification in the emergency treatment group for monoplace HBOT as independent risk factors for MEB. These findings can aid in developing safer protocols for monoplace HBOT chamber operations.