Investigating how different rates of compression affect ear problems during hyperbaric oxygen treatment

The Effect of Rate (Slope) of Compression on the Incidence of Symptomatic Eustachian Tube Dysfunction and Middle Ear Barotrauma: a Phase III Prospective Study.

Not applicable Interventional Northwell Health · NCT04804098

This study is testing whether different ways of compressing air can help prevent ear problems in people receiving hyperbaric oxygen treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorNorthwell Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (Sleepy Hollow, New York)
Trial IDNCT04804098 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the impact of varying rates of compression on the incidence of Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) and middle ear barotrauma (MEB) during hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Building on previous findings, the trial will randomly assign patients to receive either a linear or non-linear compression profile over a 15-minute period. Data will be collected prospectively from multiple patients treated as a group to assess the effectiveness of these compression rates in reducing complications. The goal is to determine the optimal compression method that minimizes ETD and MEB occurrences.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients who require hyperbaric oxygen treatment and meet the necessary diagnostic criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with absolute contraindications to hyperbaric oxygen treatment or those with chronic ear conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved protocols for hyperbaric oxygen treatment, reducing the risk of ear-related complications for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding compression profiles in reducing ear complications, but this specific approach is being tested in a larger cohort for the first time.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

- Any patient meeting the proper diagnosis and indications to be treated with hyperbaric oxygen.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any patient with absolute contraindications to hyperbaric oxygen treatment
* Patients with chronic bilateral perforation of the tympanic membrane or;
* A history of prior surgical placement of myringotomy tubes.

Where this trial is running

Sleepy Hollow, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Ear BarotraumaMiddle Ear DiseaseEar DiseasesPressure InjuryEustachian Tube DysfunctionMiddle EarInjuryMiddle Ear Barotrauma
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.