Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment which enhances the body’s natural healing process by inhalation of 100% oxygen in a total body chamber, where atmospheric pressure is increased and controlled. HBOT promotes muscle, bone repair, and nerve regeneration by stimulating angiogenesis. It is used for a wide variety of treatments usually as a part of an overall medical care plan. Having a chamber in Emporia greatly benefits those patients who qualify for treatment. HBOT treatments are recommended five days a week, last up to 90 minutes and usually require 20-25 treatments.
Under normal circumstances, oxygen is transported throughout the body only by red blood cells. With HBOT, oxygen is dissolved into the body’s fluids; such as the plasma, the central nervous system fluids, the lymph, and the bone and can be carried to areas where circulation is diminished or blocked. Extra oxygen is able to reach all the damaged tissues and helps the body to support its own healing process. The increased oxygen greatly enhances the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria, reduces swelling and allows new blood vessels to grow more rapidly in the affected areas. It is a non-invasive and painless treatment.
HBOT can be used to treat: crush injuries, chronic bone infection, complicated diabetic wounds, compromised skin grafts/flaps, injuries received from radiation to the bone or soft tissues, and more.
How is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy administered?
HBOT is administered in a chamber of clear acrylic. This allows trained technicians to closely monitor the patient and permits the patient to readily see outside the chamber. Patients are in constant view and communication with the attending technician via an intercom or may watch a movie, listen to music or just rest.
Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy safe?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is prescribed by a physician and performed under medical supervision. Although there are minor risks like all medical treatments, overall Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is safe.
Are there any side effects to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
The most common side effect is barotrauma to the ears and sinuses caused by the change in pressure. To minimize this risk, patients learn techniques to promote adequate clearing of the ears during compression. Occasionally, some patients may experience changes to their vision during their treatment period. These changes are usually minor and temporary.
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