Thomas Cooper, 5, died on while receiving oxygen therapy.
GoFundMe

The tragic death of five-year-old Thomas Cooper in a hyperbaric chamber explosion at The Oxford Centre in Troy, Michigan, has reignited concerns over the safety of alternative medical treatments. What was meant to be a health-boosting session turned into a devastating accident, exposing the potential dangers of unregulated therapies.

Thomas lost his life when the chamber exploded, as his mother, Annie Cooper, watched in horror. Emergency services were called to the scene just before 8 am on Friday, 31 January, but the young boy had already succumbed to his injuries. Annie sustained injuries to her arm while desperately trying to save him.

The Oxford Centre, which has provided hyperbaric oxygen therapy for over 15 years, expressed shock at the incident. However, the tragedy has intensified scrutiny of hyperbaric therapy centres, particularly those operating outside regulated medical environments.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves administering 100% oxygen inside a pressurised chamber to increase oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. It is commonly used for medical conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning and chronic wounds.

While the therapy is FDA-approved for specific conditions, its use for ailments like ADHD and autism is not recognised by health authorities. Despite this, The Oxford Centre was offering hyperbaric therapy for unapproved conditions, including Thomas' sleep apnoea and ADHD.

Reports indicate that Thomas' family had paid £6,300 ($8,000) for 40 sessions at the centre.

Explosion Raises Questions About Safety Protocols

Thomas' death has reignited concerns about the risks associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Experts warn that hyperbaric chambers operate under high pressure, creating a combustible environment when combined with pure oxygen. The Troy Fire Department confirmed that the explosion was caused by oxygen in the pressurised chamber.

James Harrington, the Cooper family's attorney, has called for stricter regulations. 'This incident raises serious concerns about hyperbaric chambers and the oversight of hyperbaric treatments,' he said, vowing to pursue legal action to prevent similar tragedies.

Is Hyperbaric Therapy Safe for Children?

Despite its increasing popularity, particularly in wellness centres, hyperbaric oxygen therapy carries risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, common side effects include ear pain, temporary vision changes, and lung complications. In rare cases, lung collapse and seizures can occur.

While the therapy is considered safe in approved medical settings, concerns persist over its use in non-medical clinics for unapproved conditions.

Legal Action and Calls for Accountability

Following Thomas' death, his family is determined to seek justice. 'Annie was trying to help her child, as any parent would—as good parents do,' said Harrington. The Cooper family plans to file a wrongful death lawsuit against The Oxford Centre, citing a lack of safety protocols.

Harrington also questioned the centre's operations, highlighting reports that a former employee had falsified credentials. 'Where is the oversight? Where is the regulatory board ensuring these machines are being maintained properly?' he asked during a televised interview.

Experts Call for Stricter Regulation

Industry experts stress the need for stringent regulations on facilities providing hyperbaric therapy, particularly for unapproved uses. Tom Workman, a former director at the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, said, 'Wellness is not regulated by the FDA, and that's where the problem lies.'

Meanwhile, Thomas' family hopes that their legal action will provide him justice and also lead to better regulation of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. 'He loved life. He loved running and swimming. He was planning to try mountain BMX racing and karate in the summer,' Annie Cooper shared in a tribute to her son on the GoFundMe page.

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