Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Wound Care
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO2) Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy is a safe, noninvasive medical treatment prescribed by a doctor to enhance healing. Used primarily for the treatment of complex wounds, HBO2 is available at select Cornerstone Specialty Hospital locations as an outpatient treatment.
During HBO2 therapy, patients breathe 100% pure oxygen while inside a sealed chamber in which the pressure is raised roughly 2.5 times greater than normal. This high-pressure environment allows the blood to deliver a higher oxygen load, supporting the healing of damaged tissue and enhancing the body’s ability to combat certain infections, including bone infections.
Often used alongside other treatments, HBO2 therapy has been demonstrated to support the healing of wounds and related conditions, including:
- Crush injuries
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Necrotizing infections
- Non-healing surgical skin flaps and grafts
- Osteomyelitis (bone infections)
- Radiation wounds or symptoms caused by radiation
(such as pain, rectal bleeding or bladder bleeding)
What to Expect During HBO2 Therapy
Prior to entering the hyperbaric chamber, patients are asked to wear a hospital gown. Patients are not allowed to wear or bring the following items in the chamber: cosmetics, perfumes, hair preparations, deodorants, wigs, jewelry or electronic devices. The HBO2 technician will need to know if you take any medications, including over-the-counter medications, or if you have any medical devices. Most pacemakers are allowed in the chamber.
Patients are asked not to drink alcohol or carbonated beverages for the four hours leading up to their session. If you are a smoker, the wound care team will support you with strategies to stop smoking throughout your treatment period. This is done because smoking and the use of tobacco products reduce the body’s capacity to move oxygen efficiently.
A treatment lasts about two hours. During treatments, patients can relax, take a nap, watch TV or listen to music. During certain portions of the treatment, patients may experience ear pressure or popping, much like the sensation you may feel during air travel. The technician can show you ways to ease this sensation.
Complex Wound Care
Cornerstone Hospitals' interdisciplinary care teams and innovative programs help complex wound patients heal.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatment Plan
HBO2 therapy is once a day and continues for several weeks as part of your overall treatment plan. To achieve the best results, the therapy must be completed consistently. HBO2 therapy is effective only when each session is attended as prescribed by your wound care provider.
We recognize that daily visits to the HBO2 unit require commitment, but attending every scheduled session is essential for receiving the full therapeutic benefit.
Adhering to your treatment plan is the most important factor in your healing progress. If you have any questions or concerns about your therapy schedule or the treatment process, please reach out to your care team.