[Helium-oxygen mixture and the body (the hyperbaric aspect)]

Abstract

A review of publications discussing the effect of hyperbaric He-O2 atmosphere demonstrates that its effect on the human body depends primarily on its physical parameters, density and heat conductance. Another specific effect of the atmosphere--its narcotic effect at increased pressures used in diving--still remains poorly documented. However, it appears a well recognized fact that the specific effect can be seen only in the transition period, i. e. during compression.