What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) Therapy is a treatment in which a patient breathes 100% oxygen while inside a pressurized chamber. The air pressure inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber is about 2 ½ times greater than the normal pressure in the atmosphere. This high pressure helps your blood carry more oxygen and promotes wound healing by delivering your oxygen rich blood to your organs and connective tissues. HBO also activates the white blood cells to help fight infection.

HBO therapy is a non-invasive outpatient procedure and is utilized in conjunction with wound care treatments. The therapy is provided once daily, for approximately four to six weeks depending on indication. Each treatment takes about two hours from start to completion.

What conditions are treated with HBO therapy?

Medicare currently lists 15 conditions approved for hyperbaric oxygen therapy, however, other insurance carriers can chose to treat other indications. The below indications are some of the most treated in our center:

• Diabetic wounds of the lower extremity
• Chronic refractory osteomyelitis (chronic bone infection)
• Osteoradionecrosis (Late effects of radiation-bone)
• Soft tissue radionecrosis (late effects of radiation – soft tissue)
• Compromised skin grafts and flaps
• Acute peripheral arterial insufficiency
• Acute traumatic peripheral ischemia
• Progressive necrotizing infections
• Crush injuries and suturing of severed limbs (acute)
• Gas gangrene (acute)
• Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
• Various other non-healing wounds depending on insurance approval

What to expect on my first visit?

An initial consultation with a provider is required to evaluate each patient and ensure they are candidates for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Prior medical history will be reviewed, and further education will be provided to the patient. A trained technician will provide detailed orientation and will remain with the patient throughout the entire treatment course.