What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) is a simple but effective treatment in which the patient breathes pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. The therapy quickly delivers high concentrations of oxygen to the bloodstream which helps increase the body’s own natural wound-healing abilities.

What to expect?

Before your treatment begins the HBO technician will take your vital signs and listen to your lungs.  The inside of your ears will be examined and if you have diabetes, your blood sugar will be checked.  They will also ask you questions about your pain and perform any other necessary safety checks.

The treatment takes place in a hyperbaric chamber that you can see out of. You’ll lay on a stretcher inside the chamber. You can watch TV or a movie.

Treatment will last about 2 hours. You will receive one treatment a day, Monday through Friday. Your doctor will tell you if you need more than one treatment a day.  Most patients receive between 30 and 40 treatments.  Keeping up with your appointments will mean a better chance of healing for you.

What should I tell my doctor before I begin HBO?

It’s very important to tell your doctor if you have:

• Diabetes because your blood sugar levels will be discussed and monitored.
• An internal battery operated medical device such as a pacemaker or pain pump. The staff will make sure your device can be used in the chamber.
• If you have an external battery operated medical device, it cannot go into the chamber. Your HBO physician will contact your doctor for instructions on how to deal with this device.
• Inform your HBO doctor if you have EVER had chemotherapy.
• Feel ill or congested.
• Are anxious or nervous in small, confined spaces.

What if I’m claustrophobic?

When you are in the chamber you can see out in all directions. If you are anxious, the doctor can prescribe medicine to help you relax.

A Healing Touch

The Center for Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Conway Medical Center has been providing a healing touch to patients suffering from a variety of wounds for many years.  Every patient’s wound is unique and we’ll help educate you on your wound and your plan for healing. For more information call 843-347-8347.