What Patients Can Expect
Initial Evaluation
Our physicians conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an appropriate option for your care. Our team will assist you with the following:
- Scheduling a consult visit
- Reviewing your medical history
- Performing a focused physical exam
- Obtaining pre-treatment testing, which may include chest imaging (such as a chest x-ray) and blood work
- Discussing the risks, side effects, and benefits
Treatment Plan
The total number of treatments needed to achieve full benefit is based on research and guidelines endorsed by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS). Each patient's case is unique and is evaluated individually.
| How long is each treatment? | 2-3 hours. |
| How often do I get treatments? | Daily (5-6 days per week). |
| How many total treatments do I need? | It depends. Most patients receive 10-60 sessions. |
| How do I know it's working? |
Our team re-evaluates you every 10 treatments. We will review your symptoms and discuss whether to obtain repeat testing. |
| Are there risks? | Your doctor will review the risks with you based on your medical history. Our treatments are tailored to you to be as safe as possible. |
Safety Inside the Hyperbaric Chamber
At Penn Medicine, your safety is a top priority. Because of the high oxygen environment, patients are not allowed to bring the following items inside the chambers:
- Electronics
- Cosmetics (hair spray, make-up, perfume)
- Petroleum-based products
- Synthetic materials (nylon, rayon, wool)
- Glass bottles
- Alcohol
- Cigarettes
- Lighters or matches
- Watches
- Pens
- Newspapers
- Batteries