Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
When a chronic wound isn't healing as expected, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may help. This treatment allows you to breathe 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, helping your body heal wounds, fight infection and improve circulation.
HBOT is often recommended after standard wound treatments have not produced the desired healing response. Your wound care team will determine whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy is appropriate for your condition.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before treatment, you'll change into a garment provided by Cone Health. You'll then relax inside a clear chamber while air pressure gradually increases. You may notice a feeling of fullness in your ears similar to what you experience during air travel. Your technician will help you relieve any discomfort.
Most treatments last about two hours. During your session, you may watch TV, listen to music, rest or nap. Depending on your condition, your treatment plan may include 20 to 40 sessions.
Most patients can drive themselves to and from appointments. Plan to spend up to two and a half hours at each visit.
Preparing for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
For your safety, do not wear any of the following during treatment:
- Makeup
- Perfume, cologne or aftershave
- Hairspray or other hair products
- Nail polish
- Alcohol-based or petroleum-based skin products (ask our staff if you're unsure)
- Hearing aids
- Wigs or hairpieces
Do not bring any of the following into the hyperbaric chamber:
- Cell phones, smart watches or other electronic devices
- Flammable or heat-producing items, including lighters, heating pads and tobacco products
- Food, gum or candy
- Metal items such as jewelry, keys, watches, coins and metal-framed eyeglasses
How to Get the Most Out of Therapy
To help your body get the most benefit from hyperbaric oxygen therapy:
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products during your course of treatment. Tobacco use can slow or prevent wound healing.
- Let your care team know if you develop cold, flu or sinus symptoms. Treatment may need to be postponed until symptoms improve.
- Tell hyperbaric staff about any changes to your medications. Some medicines may affect treatment.
- Follow a healthy diet and take medications as prescribed. If you have diabetes, maintaining good blood sugar control can support wound healing. Staff may monitor your blood sugar before and after treatment as needed.
Possible Side Effects
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is generally well tolerated. Some patients experience temporary vision changes that usually improve within a few weeks after treatment ends. Continue using your current eyeglass prescription unless otherwise directed by your provider.
Some patients also report mild fatigue following treatment. This is normal and typically resolves on its own.
Insurance Coverage
Medicare and most private insurance plans cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy for approved conditions. Our team can help you understand your benefits and work with your insurance provider regarding coverage requirements.
