FAQs
Most treatments are 2-3 hours long. Patients come daily, 5-6 days per week.
The number of treatment varies depending on your diagnosis. Some conditions require less than 10 treatments, while others need as many as 60 to achieve full benefit.
Why so many treatments?
The effects of oxygen on blood vessel growth and tissue healing are gradual.
- For example, researchers studying the effects of radiation treatment for cancer have studied the numbers of blood vessels in tissue that was irradiated.
- By using hyperbaric oxygen on a daily basis, researchers found that new microscopic blood vessels start to grow after 6-8 sessions and stabilize by sessions 30-40.
- The best benefits come from daily, sequential treatments to stimulate new growth.
At Penn, we offer both types of chambers. The treatment "dose" of oxygen is the same, but the way the chamber is structured is different.
- Multiplace chamber: Penn has one of the few "multiplace" chambers in the country. This type of chamber allows us to treat multiple patients with a dedicated staff member inside. This type of chamber may be preferred for patients who have claustrophobia or require assistance from staff. Patients can relax in recliner chairs or on a stretcher. Masks or hoods are used to deliver oxygen. Patients can watch a movie, read, or rest during treatment.
- Monoplace chambers: Our division has two "monoplace" chambers in which one patient is treated at a time. Patients lie within a clear acrylic 41” diameter chamber in an angled position and have access to a fully integrated entertainment system during treatment. A nurse or paramedic trained in hyperbaric medicine is present at all times next to the chamber to assist.
There are no special restrictions. In fact, we encourage you to eat, drink, and take your medications as you normally would.
Patients rest in a recliner chair or stretcher during treatment. You can read a book, watch a movie, do a crossword puzzle, or sleep!
Most patients feel the pressure change in their ears at the beginning of treatment, similar to what you may feel on a plane. Our staff will review techniques to "clear" or "equalize" your ears such as:
- Sipping water/swallowing
- Yawning
- "Valsalva" techniques
Call our office and let the team know you are running late. Most of the time, you can still join the group to get your treatment. A special safety lock permits staff and patients to move in and out of the chamber without affecting the others in the chamber.
Our priority is delivering safe care at all times. Our doctors will review the risks with you and ensure you do not have any high-risk conditions, such as a collapsed lung ("pneumothorax") before starting.
For your safety, certain things are not allowed in the chamber:
- Hairspray
- Perfume or aftershave
- Cigarettes, matches and lighters
- Vaseline or any other petroleum-based products
- Personal electronic devices, including cell phones
You will be given access to a locker to store critical belongings.
Healing also depends on good nutrition, wound care and general health maintenance.
- Blood sugar and blood pressure control. Talk to your doctor to ensure you are optimized. Uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension counteract the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, slowing the development of new blood vessels.
- Tobacco cessation is important for tissue healing. Smoking also diminishes the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy by decreasing the amount of oxygen reaching body tissue.
- Good nutrition is required building blocks for healing. Your doctor will review your labs to assess your nutritional status and talk to you about healthy ways to get protein, vitamins and minerals in your diet.
- Hyperbarics is one PART of your care. It is important to follow other instructions, such as off-loading, wound care, and taking medications such as antibiotics if prescribed.
Each insurance plan differs in what conditions they will cover. We will review your coverage at the consult visit and submit a request for authorization.