Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a specialized medical treatment in which patients breathe 100 percent oxygen in a pressurized chamber. While well-known for treating the decompression illness, a scuba diving complication, HBOT is also highly effective for stubborn, non-healing wounds.

HBOT delivers concentrated oxygen directly to the bloodstream, accelerating the healing process. This treatment is effective in fighting specific infections and promotes the growth of new blood vessels, enhancing circulation and wound healing.

Conditions

HBOT is an effective treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It is most commonly used for:

Diabetic wounds
Radiation tissue damage
Chronic osteomyelitis (bone infection)
Skin grafts and flaps

What to Expect

Our Carroll Hospital and Northwest Hospital centers offer HBOT and are accredited by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, ensuring they meet the highest quality standards of care.

Preparation

To ensure the best results from your HBOT treatment, please follow these important preparation steps:

Medication List: Create a list of your prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements. Provide this list to your HBOT provider, as some medications may affect your response to the treatment.
Health Status: Inform your treatment team if you are feeling unwell. Symptoms of common colds, flu or stomach viruses may require you to pause or delay your treatment until you are fully recovered.
Personal Items: Leave personal items at home, as they cannot be brought into the HBOT chamber. We will provide entertainment options such as TV, movies and music. Do not bring pens, food, gum, candy, lighters or cigarettes.
Avoid Certain Products: Refrain from wearing makeup, perfume, aftershave, hairspray, metal items or any materials capable of producing heat or being flammable.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and effective HBOT experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact your HBOT care team.

Treatment

At LifeBridge Health’s wound care centers, HBOT treatments are designed for your comfort and convenience. Each session lasts between 90 minutes to two hours in a spacious, clear acrylic chamber. This chamber allows you to see through it and move comfortably. Most patients enjoy watching TV, listening to music or taking a nap during treatment.

During your HBOT session, you won’t feel discomfort, but you might notice your ears popping due to air pressure changes, similar to what you experience when flying. Our team will guide you on how to safely equalize the pressure in your ears.

Typically, patients receive HBOT once per day, five days a week. Depending on your condition, you may need 20-40 treatments. Your doctor or care team will customize a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Risks and Complications

While HBOT is generally safe, there are risks. The most common side effects are ear pain and vision changes, which typically resolve after treatment. Your HBOT physician will review all potential side effects with you before starting therapy, and our dedicated team will monitor you closely during each session to ensure your continued safety.

Success Rates

HBOT has proven effective for various conditions, with many patients experiencing significant improvements. Success rates depend on the specific condition and individual patient factors. Discussing your condition with your doctor will give you a clearer understanding of the expected outcomes of your treatment.