Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is provided in an approved pressure vessel, called a hyperbaric chamber. There are two types of hyperbaric chambers used in the hospital and freestanding clinic setting that can administer HBOT: Mono-place Chambers and Multi-place Chambers. Mono-place chambers are used to treat a single patient and are typically pressurized with 100% oxygen to achieve its operating pressure/depth. Multi-place chambers are used to treat several people at one time and are typically pressurized with ambient air (21% oxygen) to achieve their operating pressure/depth. In the larger multi-place chambers, the 100% oxygen is delivered to the patients, typically via a hood (shown in the picture below). Both types of chambers provide the same therapeutic benefit, assuming the same pressure and oxygen concentration are used. We utilize a 10-person multi-place chamber at our office.
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During an HBO Treatment:
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Wear clothing that is 100% cotton for each treatment.
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Equalize/pop your ears frequently, during the changes in pressure. You may experience some fullness or mild discomfort in the ears. This is completely normal.
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Breathe normally during the procedure.
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You can watch TV, listen to music, read a book or talk with other patients.
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You will be able to talk to the therapist at any time during the treatment, and the therapist can see you and talk to you at all times.
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The chamber will be pressurized with 21% air. Patients will breathe 100% oxygen, via a clear hood.
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Depending on the diagnosis/protocol, the pressure can be up to 2.5 times the normal air pressure.
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Treatment duration is either 60 minutes or 90 minutes.
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At the end of the treatment, hoods are removed, technicians will slowly decompress the chamber and you will exit the chamber.
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After the HBO Treatment:
After completing each of your hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions, you may resume your normal activities. There are no limitations related to HBOT unless you are otherwise directed by your physician.
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Risks of the procedure:
Adverse side effects of hyperbaric oxygen treatment are extremely rare but include:
*Pressure-related trauma to ears or sinuses. The most common side effect related to HBOT is ear barotrauma or trouble equalizing pressure ear pressure, and we observe this issue in about five percent of the patient population. Second to ear barotrauma is sinus pressure or sinus squeeze. There is an increase in pressure at the start of each HBO treatment and a decrease in pressure at the end of each HBO treatment. Most patients do well with various ear clearing techniques. After the first couple of treatments/dives, patients acclimate quickly and have little, or no issues, during the remaining treatments.
*Nearsightedness. Temporary vision changes are not absolute, but if they do occur, they are usually marginal and vision typically returns to its previous state about two weeks after the last hyperbaric exposure. This is a result of daily exposure to increased atmospheric pressure/diving.
*Oxygen toxicity. This can occur as a result of receiving too much oxygen (pressure and duration). By following the appropriate protocols and procedures, the likelihood of this occurring is minute.
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HBOT is Safe.
HBOT is Non-invasive.
HBOT Works Well with Other Treatments.
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* Disclaimer: In Full Support of the FDA., Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for indications other than the UHMS-approved indications is considered Off Label. The content and information provided within this site are for informational and educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before pursuing any form of medical treatment, including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. The Information provided on this site is not to be considered Medical Advice. Please consult with your Treating Medical Physician.
