Hypercapnia in diving: a review of CO₂ retention in submersed exercise at depth.

Dr Freiberger works on the translation of basic science research on reactive oxygen species signaling into clinical practice involving hyperbaric oxygen (HBO). He has performed animal experiments in the use of HBO for ischemic preconditioning and he is currently funded to conduct a randomized controlled trial of the use of HBO for the treatment of bisphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis of the jaw. The mechanisms of action for HBO in the treatment of: diabetic wounds, bony and soft tissue radionecrosis and decompression sickness are also areas of his inquiry. Dr Freiberger also does basic epidemiological research into accidents and injuries associated with diving, high altitude exposure and other adverse conditions associated with extreme environments. Dr. Freiberger directs the fellowship program at the Duke Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Environmental Physiology.

Research interests include the study of cardiorespiratory function in humans during challenging clinical settings including the perioperative period, and exposure to environmental conditions such as diving and high altitude. Studies have included gas exchange during diving, the pathophysiology of high altitude and immersion pulmonary edema, the effect of anesthesia and postoperative analgesia on pulmonary function and monitoring of tissue oxygenation. Ongoing human studies include the effect of respiratory muscle training on chemosensitivity and blood gases during stressful breathing: underwater exercise.