Frequently Asked Questions about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

WHAT IS IT?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is the breathing of 100% oxygen in a chamber under pressure. HBOT increases oxygen levels throughout the body. These higher levels of oxygen promote the generation of new blood vessels and improves the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria, thus healing wounds that have failed to respond to conventional treatments.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
Normally, the red blood cells carry oxygen to all areas of the body. When oxygen is breathed under pressure, red blood cells carry the maximum amount of oxygen possible. At that time more oxygen moves into the plasma where it is carried to the tissues that have decreased blood flow.

WHAT ARE THE INDICATIONS?
Medically accepted:

• Compromised skin graft or flap
• Crush injury
• Radiation tissue and bone damage
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Chronic osteomyelitis
• Diabetic ulcers
• Arterial insufficiency related wounds and others 

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

• Problems clearing ears - eardrum may become bruised. This can be relieved by making changes during the treatment.
• Oxygen toxicity-too much oxygen in the tissues. Changes are made in the treatment process to prevent this.
• Visual changes - Your vision can change after 20 or more treatments. This is temporary and typically returns to pre-treatment status 6-12 weeks after therapy is completed.
   

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT LIKE?
St. John's Mercy Hyperbaric and Wound Treatment Center uses monoplace chambers, where each patient receives treatment individually. Only 100% cotton gowns are allowed in the chamber. No cosmetics, nail polish, perfumes, deodorants, wigs or jewelry are worn during treatment. You should not consume carbonated drinks or alcohol for at least four hours before your treatment. Smoking and tobacco use is not recommended because they inhibit the body's ability to adequately carry oxygen.

Inside the chamber you will feel pressure changes similar to take-off and landing in a jet aircraft. Before each treatment, you will be instructed on ways to clear your ears. Treatments usually last 90 to 120 minutes per day and are pain-free. A trained hyperbaric technician/nurse will monitor you throughout the treatment. From inside the chamber you may speak with the technician/nurse via an intercom as needed. You are able to watch TV/videos or nap while inside the chamber.

The temperature may rise during the first 10-15 minutes of the treatment and may feel fullness in your ears. Your technician/nurse will tell you how to clear the pressure to relieve any brief discomfort. During the last 10 to 15 minutes of treatment, the chamber can become somewhat cool (blankets can be provided) and your ears may "pop."

You may drive yourself to and from your treatment. Van transportation may be provided if schedule permits for HBOT patients.

BEFORE RECEIVING HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY:
Tell the technician/nurse if you have any of these symptoms:

• Cold or flu symptoms, sinus, nasal or chest congestion
• Possibility of pregnancy
• If medications have changed
• If you are diabetic and did not take your insulin or have skipped a meal before treatment
• You have any concerns about your treatment

WILL MY PHYSICIAN SEE ME?
The hyperbaric physician will do a history and physical to plan the steps to heal the wound. Included in this assessment will be a decision if you are able to qualify for hyperbaric therapy. Your hyperbaric physician will then monitor you through therapy and in planning with the hyperbaric staff.

DOES HYPERBARIC REQUIRE BEING IN THE HOSPITAL?
No, hyperbaric therapy can be done on an outpatient basis.

CAN I DRIVE MYSELF TO TREATMENTS?
Yes, you may drive yourself to treatments, if you are able. Allow two to two and one half-hours for each session.

WILL MY INSURANCE COVER MY HBO TREATMENTS?
Medicare and almost all health care plans pay for HBO treatments. Any questions about cost will be answered before an appointment is scheduled.

For more information, please contact us at 314-989-1181.