If you have a wound that is not responding to traditional medical treatments, your physician may recommend hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Originally used to treat decompression sickness (also known as "the bends") in scuba divers, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is now widely used in the treatment of chronic wounds. This highly effective, noninvasive treatment uses pressurized oxygen to increase oxygen levels in the patient's bloodstream, which helps promote wound healing and the growth of healthy tissue.
Conditions that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used for include:
- Diabetic Wounds of the Lower Extremities (such as foot ulcers)
- Compromised Skin Grafts and Flaps
- Delayed Radiation Injuries
- Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections
- Bone Infections
- Crush Injuries
- Other Select Problem Wounds
What You Will Experience During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
When you receive hyperbaric oxygen therapy, you will lie down in a clear acrylic chamber filled with 100 percent oxygen. Each treatment will typically last for two hours, during which you may choose to sleep or watch television or DVDs. The chamber also has a built-in device that will enable you to communicate with the Wound Center staff at any time. You may experience inner ear pressure, much like many people do when traveling by air. Treatment plans generally run from 20 to 60 days, and you will receive one treatment per day, five days per week.
If you have questions about hyperbaric oxygen therapy or if you would like to make an appointment, please call the Yuma Regional Medical Center Wound Care Center at 928-336-2030. Many insurance plans cover this treatment.