Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. It has been used in clinical settings for several decades for a defined set of medical indications. In recent years, it has also drawn interest in broader wellness and recovery contexts.
This article provides general information about what HBOT is, how it works, which conditions it is used for, its potential risks, and what patients in Arlington and North Texas can expect when considering it as part of their care at ProMed Longevity + Primary Care. It is not a substitute for a medical evaluation.
What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
In standard conditions at sea level, the air we breathe contains approximately 21 percent oxygen. During HBOT, a patient breathes 100 percent oxygen inside a chamber where the air pressure is raised to a level higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This combination increases the amount of oxygen that dissolves into the bloodstream and reaches tissues throughout the body.
The mechanism by which this may support healing relates to oxygen’s role in cellular repair and immune function. Tissues that are injured, infected, or poorly perfused may respond to increased oxygen availability, which is the basis for HBOT’s use in certain clinical contexts.
What Conditions Is HBOT Used For?
HBOT is used for a defined set of medical indications, with specific device clearances and clinical protocols applying to different conditions. Conditions for which HBOT has established clinical use include:
- Non-healing diabetic wounds and ulcers
- Radiation tissue damage following cancer treatment
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Decompression sickness (commonly associated with scuba diving)
- Gas gangrene and certain serious infections
- Severe anemia in situations where blood transfusion is not possible
- Crush injuries and acute traumatic ischemia
- Compromised skin grafts and flaps
Use of HBOT for conditions outside of this established list is considered off-label. If you are considering HBOT for a condition not on this list, a clinician can help you understand the current state of evidence and whether it may be relevant to your situation.
How Does HBOT Work During a Session?
A typical HBOT session involves the following general steps:
1. Entering the chamber: The patient lies or sits inside a specially designed pressurized chamber. ProMed uses hospital-grade hyperbaric chambers designed for clinical use.
2. Pressurization: The chamber is gradually pressurized while the patient breathes 100 percent oxygen. This phase may cause a sensation similar to the pressure change felt during air travel, particularly in the ears.
3. Treatment duration: Most sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes at pressure, though duration varies based on the indication and the clinical protocol.
4. Depressurization: The chamber is gradually returned to normal pressure before the session ends.
Sessions are conducted in a clinical environment and do not require sedation. Some individuals may feel fatigue after a session, which is generally temporary.
Is HBOT Safe?
HBOT is performed under medical supervision, but it is not risk-free. Potential issues can include ear or sinus pressure-related problems, temporary vision changes, oxygen toxicity-related complications, and other risks depending on the patient’s health and the specific treatment protocol. Patients with certain medical conditions may not be appropriate candidates for HBOT.
A clinician should assess whether HBOT is appropriate before treatment begins. ProMed conducts clinical evaluations prior to initiating any HBOT course. Patients should disclose their full medical history, current medications, and any relevant conditions during this evaluation.
Note: If you have questions about the safety of HBOT for your specific situation, discuss them with a qualified clinician before agreeing to treatment.
How Many Sessions Are Typically Involved?
The number of HBOT sessions recommended depends on the condition being addressed and the clinical response. For certain wound care indications, protocols often involve multiple sessions over several weeks. For other uses, session counts vary considerably.
A clinician would outline a proposed protocol based on your individual situation during an initial evaluation. HBOT is not a single-session intervention for most conditions.
What Is the Connection Between HBOT and Wound Care?
One of the most established uses of HBOT is in supporting wound healing, particularly for chronic wounds that have not responded adequately to standard care. Diabetic foot ulcers and radiation-related tissue injury are two areas where HBOT has a documented clinical role.
At ProMed, wound care and HBOT services are available and may be considered together depending on a patient’s clinical situation. A clinician would assess whether HBOT is appropriate as part of a wound care plan during an evaluation.
Is HBOT Covered by Insurance?
Insurance coverage for HBOT depends on the condition being treated and your specific plan. For established clinical indications such as diabetic wound care or radiation tissue injury, coverage is more commonly available, though pre-authorization is often required.
HBOT used for off-label indications is typically not covered by insurance. Confirm your benefits directly with your insurance provider. The ProMed team can provide information about the services available at the clinic, but coverage verification should be done through your plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interested in HBOT in Arlington or Irving?
If you would like to learn more about hyperbaric oxygen therapy and whether it may be relevant to your health situation, the team at ProMed Longevity + Primary Care offers clinical evaluations at two DFW locations: 4201 Interway Place, Arlington, TX 76018, and 9901 E Valley Ranch Pkwy, Irving, TX 75063.
To schedule a consultation, contact ProMed here or call (817) 438-6776 (Arlington) or (972) 417-1936 (Irving).
Related ProMed services: Wound Care, Primary Care, and Diagnostic Screenings.
Medical Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for general informational & educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for a professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment plan from a qualified healthcare provider. Always consult a licensed physician or clinician regarding any health concerns or before making changes to your care.