Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is one of the many treatments we offer for
chronic wounds at the Wound and Hyperbaric Center. It is a
well-established, pain-free treatment that uses pure oxygen to help
speed the healing process for wounds.
Left untreated, lower extremity ulcers and chronic wounds can lead
to a decrease in the quality of life, and may even lead to
amputation. Call 888-918-3137 to set up an appointment or to learn
more about the therapy.
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Wounds require oxygen in order to heal. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
delivers that oxygen to your body quickly and efficiently.
The treatment involves exposing patients to 100 percent oxygen in a
specially-designed chamber. This does several things for the wound:
Helps fight bacteria
Stimulates healthy cells
Promotes and enhances the healing process.
It is used to treat various conditions, including diabetic foot
ulcers and other chronic wounds.
Recline, Watch TV, and Relax in the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Chamber
Our hyperbaric oxygen chamber is the largest and most advanced
hyperbaric monoplace (one-person) chamber in the world.
Spacious Interior for Maximum Comfort
It features a large interior (41 inches) that gives you ample room
to rest in a reclined position. Our patients love the spaciousness
because it helps them remain comfortable and relaxed.
The expanded size allows patients up to 700 lbs. to comfortably
receive treatments.
Watch TV While You Get Treatment
One of the reasons we chose this model (Sechrist Model 4100) for our
facility is that it caters to patient comfort. It has a built-in,
fully integrated entertainment system that allows you to watch
television and movies or listen to music.
Expertly Made to Ensure Safety
Plus, this particular manufacturer has a very thorough inspection
and safety process. Sechrist hyperbaric oxygen chambers are the only
of their type that are fully manufactured and tested in the U.S.
These comfort and safety features are highly important to us; our
patients’ safety and comfort are top priority.
What can I expect during hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an outpatient procedure. You can get it
done right here at our center in Bakersfield. We have same- and
next-day appointments for your convenience.
Here are a few things to expect during the treatment:
When you come in for therapy, you will lie down on a table that
slides into a clear tube.
The air pressure in the chamber will increase three-fold, allowing
your lungs to gather more oxygen than under normal environmental
conditions. Your blood then carries oxygen throughout the body,
delivering it to your wound to promote healing.
The treatment is painless and you are comfortable the entire time.
You can relax, watch TV, or listen to music if you wish.
The only thing you may feel is fullness in your ears, similar to
what you feel when taking off in an airplane. Yawning and swallowing
can relieve the pressure.
Therapy typically lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. Our
staff will be monitoring you the entire time.
After the session, you may feel slightly tired or lightheaded. This
won’t last long, though, and it has no lasting effect.
What kind of results can I expect?
The results of hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be excellent,
especially when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Our patients with diabetic and other chronic ulcers can attest to
the amazing healing rate. Serious chronic wounds often show
reduction in ulcer size in a matter of weeks. Like all treatments
though, effectiveness varies by patient. Much depends on the
severity and extent of your wounds and how well your body responds.
Most patients with chronic wounds require multiple sessions to
receive the full benefit of the treatment.
Source
Are there any risks associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is generally safe. Complications, which
are rare, include:
Eardrum issues (due to the pressure)
Temporary nearsightedness
Lung collapse
Seizures
