Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves the systemic delivery of 100% oxygen to patients for 90 minutes in a chamber pressurized two to three times above normal atmospheric pressure.
Wounds that can be treated with HBOT include:
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lower extremity diabetic ulcers
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compromised skin grafts and flaps
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What are the benefits of HBOT?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases the amount of oxygen in your blood that is circulated to body tissues. The most common benefits of HBOT include:
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Preservation of damaged tissues
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Increased blood vessel formation
Your physician can explain the specific benefits you can gain from HBOT.
What should I expect during treatment?
During therapy you will relax in a see-through atmosphere-controlled chamber, which is roomy enough for you to move around. You may listen to music, watch TV, nap or talk with the staff.
Is “high pressure” oxygen therapy safe?
Yes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy usually has limited or no after- or side-effects. Your hyperbaric medical team physician will discuss possible side effects with you directly.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy painful?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not painful. You may feel a plugging in your ears from the pressurization, similar to when you are flying in an airplane or diving to the bottom of a pool of water.
How many treatments will I need?
That depends on your condition and your body’s response to HBOT. Some conditions may require as many as 20-40 treatments. Each session lasts 90-120 minutes. You may have 1-2 treatments a day, 5-6 days a week.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy reimbursable by my insurance?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is reimbursable by Medicare and most other third party payors for certain accepted conditions. Pre-authorization, in most cases, must be obtained prior to initiation of therapy.