What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing 100% pure oxygen in a specially designed chamber where the air pressure is higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This increased pressure allows your lungs to take in much more oxygen than usual, which in turn delivers higher amounts of oxygen to your blood and tissues. The extra oxygen helps the body heal faster by promoting cell growth, fighting infections, and reducing inflammation.
How it works
What conditions does it treat
What to expect
During your session
Benefits of HBOT
Approved Indications for Hyperbaric
Oxygen Therapy
Air or Gas Embolism
A dangerous condition where air bubbles block blood flow. HBOT helps by shrinking these bubbles and restoring circulation.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
HBOT quickly removes carbon monoxide from the bloodstream, helping to restore oxygen levels in your body.
Clostridial Myonecrosis (Gas Gangrene)
A dangerous condition where air bubbles block blood flow. HBOT helps by shrinking these bubbles and restoring circulation.
Crush Injuries & Compartment Syndrome
HBOT reduces swelling and helps improve oxygen delivery to damaged tissues, speeding up recovery after severe trauma.
Decompression Sickness (The Bends)
Divers experiencing decompression sickness benefit from HBOT, which reduces nitrogen bubbles in the bloodstream.
Delayed Radiation Injury (Soft Tissue and Bone)
HBOT improves blood flow and healing in tissues damaged by radiation therapy.
Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Other Problem Wounds
HBOT enhances oxygenation in poorly healing wounds, significantly improving recovery rates in diabetic patients.
Compromised Skin Grafts & Flaps
HBOT supports the healing of skin grafts and flaps that are at risk of failing by promoting healthy blood flow.
Thermal Burns
For serious burns, HBOT speeds healing and reduces the risk of infection by increasing oxygen delivery to the affected areas.
Necrotizing Infections
Life-threatening infections in soft tissue, such as necrotizing fasciitis, respond well to HBOT as it helps fight infection and heal tissue.
Osteomyelitis (Chronic Bone Infection)
HBOT helps treat persistent bone infections by delivering oxygen to infected areas, boosting the immune response.
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
When hearing loss occurs suddenly, HBOT may improve oxygen supply to the inner ear, supporting hearing recovery.
Radiation Proctitis, Cystitis, Enteritis
These painful conditions are side effects of radiation therapy, and HBOT can alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Refractory Anaemia
In cases where blood transfusions aren’t possible or effective, HBOT enhances oxygen delivery in anaemic patients.
Intracranial Abscess
HBOT helps reduce the size of brain abscesses and enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics in severe cases.
Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis)
Avascular necrosis is a condition where bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply, often leading to joint collapse. HBOT can promote new blood vessel formation and improve oxygen delivery to the affected bone, slowing the progression of the disease and aiding in recovery.
How HBOT Works
Oxygen Delivery
Under normal conditions, the air we breathe contains about 21% oxygen. During HBOT, the pressurized environment and pure oxygen allow your body to absorb more oxygen than it typically would at normal atmospheric pressure. This oxygen-rich environment enhances your body’s natural healing processes.
Increased Oxygen in Blood and Tissues
The elevated oxygen levels help repair damaged tissues, reduce swelling, and boost the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Oxygen reaches areas with poor blood flow, such as wounds, where it accelerates the healing process.
Cellular Repair
and Growth
Oxygen is essential for producing collagen, the protein that supports skin and tissue repair. HBOT stimulates collagen production, helping wounds heal faster and more effectively.
What Conditions Does HBOT Treat?
Below are the approved indications for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society.
Non-healing Wounds
Such as diabetic foot ulcers and chronic leg wounds.
Radiation Injuries
Damage to soft tissues and bones caused by radiation therapy.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
HBOT removes dangerous carbon monoxide from the blood and restores oxygen levels.
Decompression Sickness (The Bends)
A condition experienced by divers due to rapid ascent and reduced pressure.
Infections
Severe infections, including necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) and bone infections, benefit from the increased oxygen supply.
Safe and Non-Invasive
HBOT is a safe, non-invasive treatment that involves no surgery or medication. The procedure is painless, and most patients find it comfortable and relaxing. The chambers are designed to ensure patient safety, and you are always closely monitored by trained medical staff during the treatment. Because it relies on the body’s natural healing mechanisms, HBOT offers a gentle yet powerful way to enhance recovery and improve health outcomes.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
At SA Hyperbaric Medicine, Wound, & Medical Centre, we strive to make your Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) experience as comfortable and smooth as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what will happen during your treatment, from preparation to the session itself.
Consultation and
Screening
Before starting HBOT, you will have a consultation with our team to determine if the therapy is appropriate for your condition.
We will review your medical history, perform necessary evaluations, and discuss the treatment plan, including how many sessions you’ll need.
Clothing and What
to Wear
For safety reasons, you will be provided with comfortable 100% cotton clothing to wear during your treatment.
It’s important that you avoid wearing any synthetic or flammable materials, makeup, lotions, or perfumes, as these items can be hazardous in the pressurized oxygen-rich environment. Jewelry and watches should also be removed.
Items Not Allowed in the Chamber
The following items are not permitted inside the hyperbaric chamber:
- Electronics (phones, tablets, etc.)
- Lighters, matches, or any flammable objects
- Hearing aids and dentures
- Synthetic fabrics or potentially flammable clothing
Our team will guide you on what you can safely bring into the chamber and will securely store any personal belongings outside the chamber during your session.
During Your HBOT Session
Entering the Chamber
After changing into appropriate clothing, you will enter either our multiplace (multi-patient) chamber or you will lie down or sit comfortably inside the chamber as it is sealed and prepared for pressurization.
How You Might Feel
Most patients feel perfectly fine after a session, although some may experience mild fatigue, which typically passes quickly. You can resume normal activities immediately after treatment, though it’s recommended to drink plenty of water and rest if needed.
Duration of Sessions
Each session typically lasts between 60 to 120 minutes, though this may vary depending on your specific treatment plan. Most patients require multiple sessions for optimal results, which will be discussed during your consultation.
Pressurization
Once inside, the chamber will begin to pressurize slowly. You may feel a slight pressure in your ears, similar to what you experience during take off or landing in an airplane. Our staff will show you how to “equalize” your ears by swallowing, yawning, or gently pinching your nose to relieve any pressure.
Depressurization
Breathing 100% Oxygen
You will wear a mask to breathe 100% oxygen while the chamber is pressurized with air. You can breathe normally throughout the session.
Relax and Enjoy the Experience
The treatment is painless, and many patients find it relaxing. You can rest, nap, or chat during the session. Medical staff will monitor you closely, ensuring your comfort and safety at all times. The chambers are equipped with communication systems, so you can speak to the staff if needed.
Monitoring Your Progress
Throughout your treatment course, we will regularly assess your progress to ensure you’re receiving the best possible care. You’ll be scheduled for follow-up appointments to track improvements and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.
By knowing what to expect during HBOT, you can feel more at ease and confident about your treatment. Our staff is always available to answer any questions and provide support every step of the way.
Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
At SA Hyperbaric Medicine, Wound, and Medical Centre, we strive to make your Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) experience as comfortable and smooth as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what will happen during your treatment, from preparation to the session itself.
Promotes Healing
HBOT enhances the body’s natural healing process by delivering extra oxygen to tissues that need it most. When tissues are damaged or suffering from poor blood flow, they can’t receive the oxygen required for healing. By increasing oxygen levels in the blood, HBOT stimulates new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), boosts tissue repair, and encourages the growth of healthy cells. This is particularly beneficial for chronic or slow-healing wounds, such as those caused by diabetes or infections.
Reduces Swelling and Inflammation
In cases of injury or trauma, inflammation and swelling can restrict blood flow and slow down healing. HBOT helps reduce inflammation by delivering oxygen to areas with compromised blood supply, promoting better circulation. By reducing swelling, HBOT also decreases pain and accelerates recovery time, making it especially useful for crush injuries, burns, and post-surgical recovery.
Accelerates Tissue Recovery
Whether you’re recovering from a wound, surgery, or radiation therapy, HBOT helps speed up tissue recovery. The high oxygen levels provided during HBOT promote the formation of collagen, a critical protein that supports the repair of skin and tissues. This makes it effective for:
- Diabetic foot ulcers and other chronic wounds that are slow to heal.
- Radiation injuries, such as those affecting bones and soft tissues, which can result from cancer treatments.
- Skin grafts and flaps, where HBOT helps increase the chances of successful healing by enhancing blood flow.
Helps Treat Chronic Wounds
For individuals with conditions such as diabetes, wounds can take a long time to heal due to poor circulation. HBOT enhances oxygen delivery to these areas, promoting faster and more efficient healing of diabetic foot ulcers and similar chronic wounds. It has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of amputation and improve overall wound healing outcomes in diabetic patients.
Improves Recovery from Radiation Injuries
After radiation therapy for cancer, some patients experience damage to tissues and bones in the treated area. HBOT helps repair and regenerate tissues damaged by radiation. It can reduce pain, inflammation, and discomfort in conditions like radiation proctitis, cystitis, and osteoradionecrosis (bone damage from radiation). By increasing blood flow to affected areas, HBOT helps restore healthy tissue and reduce long-term complications.
Enhances Overall Healing for Various Conditions
In addition to the conditions mentioned, HBOT is beneficial for:
Carbon monoxide poisoning, where it helps remove dangerous carbon monoxide from the bloodstream.
Decompression sickness (“the bends”) in divers, where it reduces nitrogen bubbles in the blood.
Crush injuries and compartment syndrome, where it helps tissues recover from trauma and reduces the risk of permanent damage.
FAQ
Does medical aid cover HBOT?
A: Yes, many medical aids in South Africa cover Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for the approved medical indications. We recommend contacting your provider to confirm if your specific treatment will be covered, and our office can assist with providing any necessary documentation.
How long does each session last?
Each HBOT session typically lasts between 60 and 120 minutes. The exact duration depends on the condition being treated and your individualized treatment plan.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required depends on the condition being treated and how your body responds to the therapy. For most conditions, patients typically undergo between 10 and 40 sessions. Severe conditions, such as chronic non-healing wounds or radiation injuries, may require additional treatments.
What should I wear during treatment?
You will need to wear 100% cotton clothing during your session, as synthetic fabrics may pose a safety risk in the hyperbaric environment. We will provide you with comfortable, suitable clothing.
Can I bring personal items into the chamber?
For safety reasons, certain items are not allowed inside the chamber, including electronics, jewelery, and flammable objects. You may bring reading material such as a book to keep yourself entertained during the session.
What are the common side effects of HBOT?
HBOT is generally safe, but some patients may experience temporary side effects such as ear discomfort, sinus pressure, or fatigue after treatment. These effects are usually mild and resolve quickly. We monitor all patients closely to ensure their comfort and safety.
What happens if I feel uncomfortable during the session?
Safety is our top priority. During the session, you are constantly monitored by our trained medical team. If you feel uncomfortable or need assistance, you can communicate with us immediately, and we will take appropriate action to ensure your comfort.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy painful?
No, HBOT is not painful. However, you may experience some pressure in your ears, similar to what you feel during an airplane take-off or landing. This can usually be alleviated by swallowing or yawning.
Can HBOT help with sports injuries?
While HBOT is not typically the first line of treatment for sports injuries, it may help in cases where healing is delayed or if there is severe tissue damage. It enhances oxygen supply to injured tissues, which can speed up recovery.
How safe is HBOT for children?
A: HBOT is safe for children and is often used to treat conditions like carbon monoxide poisoning and certain infections. Our chambers and staff are fully equipped to handle paediatric patients.
What conditions can be treated with HBOT?
There are 15 approved medical conditions for HBOT, ranging from diabetic foot ulcers and radiation injuries to decompression sickness and carbon monoxide poisoning. Visit our page on approved conditions to learn more about what can be treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
How should I prepare for my first HBOT session?
Before your first session, make sure to eat a light meal and stay hydrated. Avoid smoking, as it reduces oxygen levels in your blood. Also, remove any lotions, perfumes, and synthetic clothing before treatment.
Can I continue my regular medications during HBOT?
In most cases, you can continue your regular medications during HBOT. However, it’s important to inform our medical team of all medications you’re taking so that we can ensure your safety throughout the treatment process.
Are there any risks associated with HBOT?
While HBOT is considered very safe, there are rare risks such as barotrauma (pressure-related injury to the ears or lungs) and oxygen toxicity. Our medical team will thoroughly assess you before treatment and monitor you closely to minimize any potential risks.
What is the success rate of HBOT?
The success of HBOT depends on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. For many conditions, such as diabetic foot ulcers and radiation injuries, HBOT has been shown to significantly improve healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Is there a difference between hyperbaric oxygen therapy and oxygen therapy?
Yes, hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing 100% oxygen at a higher pressure than normal atmospheric levels, which allows for increased oxygen delivery to tissues. Standard oxygen therapy delivers oxygen at normal atmospheric pressure, which doesn’t achieve the same therapeutic benefits for conditions requiring enhanced oxygenation.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for HBOT?
If you have a condition that is among the UHMS-approved indications for HBOT, you may be a candidate. Our team will perform a thorough assessment of your medical history and condition to determine if HBOT is appropriate for you.
Will I need to take time off work for my treatment?
The need to take time off depends on your condition and treatment plan. HBOT sessions are typically outpatient procedures, meaning you can return to your daily activities after your treatment unless your condition requires rest. Some patients experience mild fatigue after sessions, which may warrant some rest.