Under Pressure - Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, also known as HBO, is used to treat some medical conditions. About 10% of patients who visit the Wound Healing Center will qualify for HBO treatments. The treatment takes place in a chamber where you are monitored by an HBO technologist.

Once inside the pressurized chamber you breathe one hundred percent oxygen. Your blood carries the extra oxygen and takes it to your injured area. While in the chamber, patients can relax by watching tv or a movie.

The staff explained my treatment plan and took the time to answer all of my questions. -James M.

How do I find out if HBO is for me?

If you have a wound that hasn't healed in four weeks, ask your doctor. He will evaluate your wound. He will decide if HBO is for you.

Can someone stay with me during HBO?

To protect the privacy of our patients, family members may not remain with you during your treatment. A waiting room is provided for their comfort. A trained staff member is always in the room during treatment. You can communicate with them at any time

What should I wear?

We put safety first. We will provide you with clothing to wear during your treatment. Please do not wear any of the following items when you come to the center for HBO therapy:

• Makeup
• Wigs or hair pieces
• Nail polish that has been on less than 24 hours. You can paint your nails at least 24 hours before an HBO treatment.
• Loose fitting dentures
• Contact Lenses
• Deodorants
• Skin Lotions
• Perfume cologne or aftershave
• Jewelry, including watches and earrings
• Hair spray or oils
• You cannot have anything in your mouth such as: gum, Loose dentures, or candy during treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Treatment is different for each patient. It depends on the patient's condition and response to therapy. Most patients receive between 30 and 40 treatments.

How long does a treatment last?

Treatment will last about 2 hours. You will receive one treatment a day, Monday through Friday. Your doctor will tell you if you need more than one treatment a day.

What should I expect before treatment?

• The HBO technician will take your vital signs and listen to your lungs.
• The inside of your ears will be examined.
• You will be asked about your pain. If you have diabetes, your blood sugar will be checked. Safety checks will be done before each treatment.
• Let the staff know if you feel ill.
• Let the staff know if you are congested.

Is HBO painful?

HBO is not painful. At the beginning of your treatment you may feel pressure in your ears. Like when you fly in a plane or drive up in to the mountains. You may have to clear your ears. The HBO staff will instruct you on methods for clearing your ears, such as:

• Swallow
• Yawn
• Open and close your mouth

What should I tell my doctor before I begin HBO?

Tell your doctor if you have:

• An internal battery operated medical device such as a pacemaker or pain pump. The staff will make sure your device can be used in the chamber.
• If you have an external battery operated medical device, it cannot go into the chamber. Your HBO physician will contact your doctor for instructions on how to deal with this device.
• Inform your HBO doctor if you have EVER had chemotherapy.

What if I have diabetes?

Your doctor will discuss blood sugar control with you. The HBO technician will check your blood sugar before and after treatment. Take your medicine as prescribed. Eat before HBO.

What if you feel claustrophobic?

When you are in the chamber you can see out in all directions. If you are anxious, the doctor can prescribe medicine to help you relax.

Is HBO therapy covered by my insurance?

Medicare has approved coverage for HBO therapy for many types of chronic non-healing wounds. Most private insurance companies follow medicare rules. We will review your insurance plan with you before your therapy starts to make sure you know what your costs will be.

References:
Kindwall, E. P. & Whelan, H. T. (2004) Hyperbaric medicine practice. (2nd ed.) Flagstaff: Best Publishing.
Novell, H., & Larson-Lohr, V. (2002). Hyperbaric nursing. Flagstaff: Best Publishing