Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO)

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If you experience a wound that hasn’t healed in four weeks, ask your physician to evaluate your wound for HBO. Wound conditions that may benefit from HBO include:

  • Air or gas embolism 
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Compromised grafts and flaps
  • Crush injuries
  • Decompression sickness
  • Diabetic wounds of the lower extremity
  • Enhancement of healing in select wounds
  • Exceptional blood loss anemia
  • Gangrene
  • Intracranial abscess
  • Necrotizing soft tissue infections
  • Post-radiation injury
  • Refractory osteomyelitis
  • Thermal burn

How It Works

Lying in the transparent cylinder of the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, you have an unobstructed view outside and the ability to talk to an attendant through an intercom. During treatment, you may relax by sleeping, listen to music or watch television. As the chamber is gradually pressurized, you may feel a “fullness” in the ears similar to that experienced when diving under water or flying in an airplane. Trained attendants can assist in trying to help you overcome this temporary sensation.

How long does each treatment last?

Each treatment lasts about 2 hours. You should receive one treatment a day, Monday – Friday. Your physician will instruct you if you need more than one treatment per day.

How many treatments should I need?

Treatment is different for each patient, depending on the patient’s condition and the response to therapy. Most HBO patients receive between 30 and 40 treatments.

Can someone stay with me during treatments?

To protect the privacy of our patients, guests are not permitted to accompany you during your treatments. A waiting room has been provided to accommodate them. A trained staff member, with whom you may communicate, is in the room at all times. 

What should I wear to treatment?

We will provide you with clothing for the treatment. For safety considerations, please do not wear:

  • Make up
  • Wigs or hair pieces
  • Nail polish applied in the previous 24 hours.
  • Loose-fitting dentures
  • Skin lotions, hair spray/hair oil
  • Perfume, cologne or aftershave
  • Jewelry, including watches and earrings

Also, please don't have anything in your mouth, including chewing gum or candy.

What if I feel claustrophobic?

In the cylinder, you have visibility to all directions. If you are anxious, a physician may prescribe you medicine to help you relax.

What if I have diabetes?

The HBO technician will check your blood sugar before and after treatment. Take your medicine as prescribed and eat before HBO. As with any treatment, minor side effects may occur. Patients are advised of safety precautions and preparations prior to treatment.