How it works
Hyperbaric therapy works through elevation in tissue oxygen levels that
occurs in the tissues induces significant changes in the wound repair
processes that affect healing. When hyperbaric oxygen is used in
conjunction with standard wound care and overall team approach, studies
show that there is improvement in healing of the difficult or limb
threatening wound.
Increased oxygen delivery to the tissues: stimulates the formation of a
collagen matrix so new blood vessels may develop, enhances perfusion,
replaces inert gas in the bloodstream with oxygen and works as a
bactericide (helps to kill bacteria).
Beyond wound care, hyperbaric therapy is also used to treat acute carbon monoxide (CO)
poisoning. High oxygen concentrations also reverse the effects of
tissue hypoxia (low oxygen) caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.
How long do treatments last?
Most treatments last 90 minutes and are given once or twice daily,
depending on the diagnosis, on a Monday through Friday schedule. Some
patients may have weekend treatments depending on their diagnosis.
Patients may have two to six weeks of daily treatments.