Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is administering 100% oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure in a hyperbaric chamber. The increased atmospheric pressure leads to increased oxygen absorption into the patient’s bloodstream, which is then carried to the patient’s wound.

The most significant benefit is the improvement in healing of certain wounds that won't heal due to low oxygen content. Exposure to hyperbaric oxygen stimulates new blood vessels and tissue growth, improving the wound healing process. Although all of the underlying mechanisms have not been fully explained, the benefits of therapy in properly selected patients can be significant.

What Can HBO Treat?

The following are approved uses of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as defined by the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Committee.

• Air or Gas Embolism
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Clostridal Myositis and Myonecrosis (Gas Gangrene)
• Crush Injury, Compartment Syndrome, and other Acute Traumatic Ischemias
• Decompression Sickness
• Enhancement of Healing in Selected Problem Wounds
• Exceptional Blood Loss (Anemia)
• Intracranial Abscess
• Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections
• Osteomyelitis (Refractory)
• Delayed Radiation Injury (Soft Tissue and Bony Necrosis)
• Skin Grafts & Flaps (Compromised)
• Thermal Burns