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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) saturates the body's cells with a prescribed amount of 100 percent oxygen, administered inside a safe, specially designed chamber. A higher than normal pressure inside the chamber gives the oxygen an extra push into your tissue that is affected by the wound to promote the growth of healthy tissue, expand blood flow and help the effects of any antibiotics you are taking.

Is HBOT Right For You?

HBOT is considered "adjunctive therapy," or treatment that is used together with other forms of treatment. HBOT is not a cure-all, but a part of your total medical or surgical care. Your doctor will decide if HBOT should be a part of your overall wound healing treatment plan.

In order to ensure appropriate use of HBOT we follow the indications approved by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.

Conditions HBOT Treats

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is approved to treat the following conditions:

  • Non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers
  • Chronic bone infection (chronic refractory osteomyelitis)
  • Injury to skin or bone as a side effect from radiation therapy
  • Non-healing skin grafts and flaps
  • Crush injuries
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Sudden sensorineural hearing loss
  • Central retinal artery occlusion

Patients typically receive HBOT five days a week for approximately four to six weeks. One treatment takes about two hours and is quite comfortable for most patients.

How to Prepare for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

HBOTA staff member will tell you how many treatments you will need. During your treatment, you may watch television, a movie or take a nap.

You will be given a hospital gown to wear in the chamber. No cosmetics, perfumes, hair preparations, deodorants, wigs, jewelry or electronic devices are allowed in the chamber (most pacemakers are allowed in the chamber). The hyperbaric technologist will need to know if you are taking any medications, including non-prescription drugs. You are advised not to drink alcohol or carbonated beverages for four hours prior to treatment. 

Smoking and the use of tobacco products interferes with the body’s ability to transport oxygen. Therefore, your doctor will work with you on techniques to help stop smoking during the treatment period.