Patient Resources

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a medical treatment sometimes used to treat chronic wounds and other medical conditions. The chamber delivers 100% oxygen at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure (sea level).

HBOT enhances the blood’s ability to carry oxygen to wound tissue. In addition, white blood cell activity is increased. HBOT also accelerates the formation of blood vessels at the wound site.

Each treatment typically lasts 90 to 120 minutes and are administered usually once each day, five days a week.

During therapy, you will relax in a see-through atmosphere-controlled chamber. The internal dimensions of the chamber allow freedom of movement. You may listen to music, watch TV, take a nap or converse with the staff during therapy. Relaxation techniques may also be available.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not painful. At the beginning of treatment, a patient may feel pressure in their ears similar to flying in a plane. While in the chamber, patients are able to watch movies or nap to help pass the time.

You will be closely monitored by a hyperbaric medicine team who will also work with your provider to assure your HBOT experience is safe and effective. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy usually has limited or no after-or-side effects. Your hyperbaric medicine team provider will discuss possible side effects with you directly.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is available through a referral from your provider. Your provider will be responsible for your general medical management and will work closely with the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy team of specialists.

HBOT is approved by Medicare to treat patients with a variety of medical conditions.

The number of treatments administered depends on your specific condition. Your hyperbaric oxygen and wound healing team will discuss your treatment course before you begin therapy. Some conditions may require as many as 20 to 40 treatments.

Your provider and hyperbaric oxygen & wound healing team will give you specific instruction about how to prepare for treatment. Some important things to remember include:

No smoking: Use of tobacco products limits the delivery of blood and oxygen to your body tissues.

List all medications: It is very important to give your medical team a complete list of any prescription or over-the-counter drugs you may be taking. Some medications can change your body’s response to oxygen therapy.

Alert your medical team if you are not feeling well: Cold and flu symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, headache, diarrhea or general body aches may require a temporary delay in your treatment schedule.

Patients are prohibited from wearing or having the following in the chamber:

• Makeup
• Wigs/hair pieces
• Deodorants, lotions, perfumes, aftershave
• Contact lenses
• Jewelry
• Hair spray/oils
• Loose dentures, gum, candy
• Nail polish