Serious wounds require serious care. Often arising from complications associated with another medical condition, wounds that are suitable for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) are yet another hurdle on the path to health. The body is overwhelmed, tissue is damaged, and the healing process may be compromised. In such a scenario, utilizing the most effective possible treatment method quickly goes from important to imperative.
Lane Regional Medical Center proudly offers HBOT as part of our wound care services, and we often encounter questions about the therapy’s capabilities. If you are among the six million Americans suffering from a chronic, slow- or non-healing wound, read on to learn the answers to some of our most common HBOT-related questions.
How does it Work? – Of course, we need oxygen to breathe, but we also need it to heal. Our body’s tissues require an adequate amount of oxygen just for survival. Damaged tissue, however, will require even more in order to repair itself. The air we breathe is roughly 21 percent oxygen and alone is often not enough. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivers 100 percent pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, supercharging the healing process.
What are the Benefits? – In addition to advancing wound healing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can also help patients ward off infection, a serious concern, particularly among those who already have compromised immune systems. Other benefits include reduced swelling and edema, elimination of toxic substances, and preservation of damaged tissue and veins.
Who is a Candidate? – Chronic wounds can arise from a number of conditions, but we most frequently see those associated with complications from diabetes. Diabetic patients frequently experience wounds such as pressure sores, or ulcers, often occurring in the lower extremities. Additionally, patients with wounds from radiation therapy, skin grafts, or traumatic injuries are often well-suited for HBOT.
There are many scenarios in addition to those listed above that may be ideal for HBOT treatment. Each patient and scenario are unique, and the uses for a therapy such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy are wide and varied. If you or a loved one have a chronic wound that you feel may benefit from HBOT, speak to your physician about treatment at Lane’s Wound Care & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center, or contact us directly at the number below.
Lane Wound Care & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center
4917 West Park Dr.
Zachary, LA 70791
(225) 658-4110
