HBOT — Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy delivers 100% oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure, dramatically raising oxygen levels in the blood and tissues. It is a proven treatment for chronic wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, radiation injuries, and infections that have failed to respond to conventional care.
Overview
Inside a hyperbaric chamber, you breathe pure oxygen at 1.5 to 3 times normal atmospheric pressure. Under these conditions, your blood plasma becomes supersaturated with oxygen — delivering up to 15-20 times more oxygen to damaged tissues. This stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), enhances white blood cell function to fight infection, and accelerates wound healing.
HBOT is not a standalone treatment — it works synergistically with surgical debridement, antibiotics, and wound care. A typical course involves 20-40 sessions, each lasting 60-90 minutes. Patients rest comfortably inside the chamber and can watch videos or listen to music during treatment.
Causes
- HBOT is a treatment modality, not a disease treatment itself. It is used for conditions requiring enhanced oxygen delivery to heal damaged tissue.
Symptoms
- Indications include diabetic foot ulcers, chronic non-healing wounds, radiation tissue damage, severe infections, compromised skin grafts, and crush injuries.
Diagnosis
- Wound assessment — measuring wound size, depth, and tissue health
- Transcutaneous oximetry — measuring oxygen levels at the wound site
- Vascular studies — assessing circulation before HBOT
- Pre-treatment chest X-ray — ensuring lung health before hyperbaric exposure
Treatment Options
HBOT for diabetic foot ulcers
20-40 sessions to accelerate wound closure and reduce amputation risk. Often combined with surgical debridement.
HBOT for chronic osteomyelitis
Enhanced antibiotic penetration and white cell function against bone infections.
HBOT for radiation cystitis and proctitis
Treatment for delayed radiation injuries after cancer therapy.
HBOT for failing skin grafts and flaps
Improves graft survival by enhancing oxygenation and new blood vessel formation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HBOT safe?
Yes. It is FDA-approved and has an excellent safety record when administered by trained professionals. Temporary ear pressure (similar to an aeroplane) is the most common side effect.
How many HBOT sessions are needed?
Most conditions require 20-40 sessions. Diabetic foot ulcers typically respond after 20-30 sessions, delivered 5 days per week.
Can I have HBOT if I am claustrophobic?
Modern multiplace chambers are spacious and patients are accompanied by a technologist. Mild sedation can be used if needed. Most claustrophobic patients tolerate treatment well.
Ready to Discuss Your Treatment?
Our hbot — hyperbaric oxygen therapy specialists in Kondapur are here to help. Most consultations available within 24 hours.