Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO) is a means of providing additional oxygen to the tissues in your body. While breathing 100% oxygen at atmospheric pressures greater than sea level, more oxygen is dissolved in the blood and distributed throughout the entire body. This process aids in wound healing by increasing the ability of white blood cells to fight infection. HBO therapy can be used to augment any other medical or surgical care a patient is receiving.
The HBO chamber is a clear, seamless acrylic “tube”, equipped with a TV/DVD system and a communication system allowing patients to speak with the HBO unit operator, physician or family members.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO) is a means of providing additional oxygen to the tissues in your body. While breathing 100% oxygen at atmospheric pressures greater than sea level, more oxygen is dissolved in the blood and distributed throughout the entire body. This process aids in wound healing by increasing the ability of white blood cells to fight infection. HBO therapy can be used to augment any other medical or surgical care a patient is receiving.
What Conditions Can Benefit from Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
- 1. Air or Gas Embolism
- 2. Arterial Insufficiency
- a. Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
- b. Enhancement of Healing in Selected Problem Wounds
- 3. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- 4. Clostridial Myositis and Myonecrosis (Gas Gangrene)
- 5. Crush Injury, Compartment Syndrome, and Other Acute Traumatic Ischemia
- 6. Decompression Sickness
- 7. Severe Anemia
- 8. Intracranial Abscess
- 9. Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection
- 10. Osteomyelitis (refractory)
- 11. Delayed Radiation Injury (soft tissue and bony necrosis)
- 12. Compromised Grafts and Flaps
- 13. Acute Thermal Burn Injury
- 14. Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
How Long Do HBO Treatments Last?
An average treatment lasts approximately 2 ½ hours. This includes the time to compress and decompress the chamber, coupled with the 90 minutes at the prescribed treatment depth. The technician will decompress the chamber any time you may need to finish your treatment early.
How Many HBO Treatments Will I Need?
There is no “magic number” of treatments, because each person responds differently to the therapy. It is possible, however, to estimate how many treatments you may require, based upon your condition.
How Many Times a Day Would I Need HBO Therapy?
Typically once a day, five days a week for most chronic problems. However, patients with more acute problems can be treated up to twice a day.
Does My Insurance cover HBO Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is covered by most medical insurances, along with Medicare and Medicaid. For questions related to your specific coverage, call your insurance carrier, or our office at (304) 285-1460 [skype link] to determine what your specific insurance plan covers.
Are HBO Treatments Safe?
Yes. As a patient you will be given a thorough orientation prior to your first treatment. Our team of specialists will not only ensure your safety, but will make your treatments as comfortable as possible.
Do I Need a Physician Referral to Be Seen at the Wound Healing Center?
No. Patients may refer themselves to the center and be evaluated by our staff to determine whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy would be beneficial. Your primary care physician can also refer you to the center. For a consultation, please call our office at (304) 285-1460 [skype link].
Will I Still Need to See My Regular Physician?
Yes. The Wound Healing Center only treats wounds, so you will continue to see your regular physician about your treatment program and the progress you are making.
What Happens If I Miss a Treatment?
Much of your wound healing success depends upon your level of commitment and participation in your own care. As an active member of your wound management team, you will need to follow directions carefully, watch your progress closely, and keep your weekly appointments for optimal success.