It is now ten years since the first Handbook on Hyperbaric Medicine was
published. During this time there have been many major advances: our
understanding of the actions of hyperbaric oxygenation has been
elucidated by several studies; clinical practice is becoming more
scientific; various consensus-derived organisational and operational
recommendations and guidelines are now widely accepted.
As for Europe, these positive developments are largely due to the
continuous action of the European Committee for Hyperbaric Medicine
(ECHM). One of the most successful initiatives was the start of a
specific European research action sponsored by the EU Co-operation in
Science and Technology (COST) programme. The specific COST Action for
hyperbaric medicine, COST B14, has been completed and has provided the
impetus for the publication of this new Handbook.
This book is a reference document for researchers and clinicians, and is
also of excellent use for both teachers and students.