Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

What is Hypberbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a treatment in which the patient breathes 100% pure oxygen while inside a pressurized chamber. The air pressure inside a hyperbaric oxygen chamber is about two and half times greater than the normal pressure in the atmosphere. This "hyperbaric" (or high pressure) dose of oxygen helps your blood carry more oxygen to your organs and tissues to promote wound healing. It also activates the white blood cells to fight infection.


Patients typically receive hyperbaric oxygen therapy for five days a week for approximately four to six weeks. One treatment takes about two hours and is quite comfortable for most patients.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is approved to treat the following conditions:

  • Non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers
  • Chronic bone infection (chronic refractory osteomyelitis)
  • Injury to skin or bone as a side effect from radiation therapy
  • Non-healing skin grafts and flaps
  • Crush injuries
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Sudden sensorineural hearing loss
  • Central retinal artery occlusion

How to Prepare for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

A Saint Joseph's staff member will tell you how many treatments you will need. During your treatment, you may watch television, a movie, or take a nap.

You will be given a hospital gown to wear in the chamber. No cosmetics, perfumes, hair preparations, deodorants, wigs, jewelry or electronic devices are allowed in the chamber (most pacemakers are allowed in the chamber). The hyperbaric technologist will need to know if you are taking any medications, including non-prescription drugs. You are advised not to drink alcohol or carbonated beverages for four hours prior to treatment.

Smoking and the use of tobacco products interferes with the body's ability to transport oxygen. Therefore, your doctor will work with you on techniques to help stop smoking during the treatment period.

Have questions about Saint Joseph's hyperbaric oxygen therapy procedure? Contact us at (914) 378-7900 to find out more about what to expect.

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