Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric (high pressure) oxygen therapy is available and administered to patients in specially designed hyperbaric oxygen chambers. Breathing pure oxygen increases the level of oxygen in the bloodstream to promote wound healing by stimulating new vascular growth and facilitating the normal wound healing process in the compromised patient. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy also plays an important role in treating acute and traumatic wounds such as necrotizing fasciitis, clostridial myonecrosis, crush injuries and surgical complications.
Our Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Program
Our comprehensive program is accredited by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS), an international, nonprofit organization serving over 2,400 members from more than 50 countries.
Griffin Hospital’s program is one of only six in Connecticut to earn UHMS accreditation. Griffin Hospital was among the first hospitals in Connecticut to provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) as part of our comprehensive wound care program. HBO therapy provides 100% oxygen within a pressurized chamber, which gently increases the amount of oxygen delivered to your body tissues by the blood stream. HBO therapy typically does not produce any after effects, and while risks and side effects are minimal, our care team will discuss them with you before you begin therapy. This high pressure dose of oxygen is used to treat a variety of illnesses as well as problem wounds, and provides distinct therapeutic benefits:
- Enhanced wound healing
- Stimulation of white blood cells, the body’s natural defense to infection
- New blood vessel formation
- Preservation of tissues from radiation damage
- Reduction or elimination of the effects of toxic substances
What to Expect During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
The care team at the Comprehensive Wound Healing Center will discuss specific preparations required before your therapy.
During hyperbaric oxygen therapy, you will lie comfortably in a chamber and breathe normally. The sensation felt is similar to mild pressure you may feel during air travel as your eardrums respond to pressure changes associated with changes in elevation. Patients are taught several easy techniques to avoid ear pressure discomfort. Although the number of treatments may vary, patients with problem wounds often require 20 to 30 treatments to achieve maximum benefits.