Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for Wound Healing: What You Need to Know

Wound Free
Aug 5
3 min read

An Informational Guide from WoundFree

Some wounds do not recover as expected with standard care. In complex or chronic cases, advanced therapies may be recommended. One of the most researched and recognized options is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)—a treatment that delivers 100% oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure to support tissue repair and infection control.

At WoundFree, our goal is to provide accurate, evidence-based information. This article explains how HBOT works, when it may be appropriate, and what current research says about its role in wound recovery.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen inside a specially designed pressurized chamber. Under higher atmospheric pressure, oxygen dissolves more efficiently into the blood and reaches tissues that are oxygen-deprived due to injury, poor circulation, or long-term disease.

A typical HBOT session lasts between 60 and 120 minutes. Depending on the condition being treated, multiple sessions over several days or weeks may be required.

How Does HBOT Support Wound Recovery?

Oxygen plays a central role in nearly all aspects of tissue repair. When oxygen supply is limited—whether due to infection, damaged blood vessels, or chronic inflammation—wound recovery can stall. HBOT works by delivering high concentrations of oxygen to affected areas.

Reported Benefits of HBOT:

Improves oxygen delivery to tissue with compromised circulation
Stimulates the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis)
Reduces inflammation and tissue swelling
Supports the activity of immune cells involved in infection control
Encourages the development of stronger connective tissue

When Is HBOT Considered?

HBOT is generally not used for routine wound care. It is reserved for specific, often serious, conditions where oxygen delivery is a limiting factor in recovery. Medical guidelines recommend HBOT for certain approved indications, usually in combination with standard wound care protocols.

Common Applications of HBOT in Wound Management:

Diabetic foot ulcers that do not respond to conventional care
Radiation-induced soft tissue injury (such as after cancer treatment)
Chronic bone infections (osteomyelitis)
Crush injuries or traumatic wounds with poor blood supply
Skin grafts or surgical flaps at risk of failure
Necrotizing soft tissue infections (as an emergency measure)

Potential Risks and Limitations

While HBOT is considered safe when properly administered, it is not without risks. Side effects may include:

Ear or sinus discomfort caused by pressure changes
Temporary vision changes (usually mild and reversible)
Rare cases of oxygen toxicity with prolonged exposure
Claustrophobia in enclosed chambers

HBOT is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with untreated pneumothorax, certain lung conditions, or some medical implants may not be candidates. It is essential to undergo a medical evaluation before starting treatment.

Key Takeaways from WoundFree

HBOT is a medical therapy that increases oxygen availability to support tissue repair and reduce complications.
It is not a primary treatment, but a supportive measure for carefully selected cases.
It should always be administered in accredited facilities by trained professionals.
Patients and caregivers should discuss the potential benefits and risks of HBOT with their healthcare team.
HBOT is best used as part of a broader, multidisciplinary wound recovery plan.

WoundFree is an independent educational platform. We do not offer clinical treatment, but we are committed to providing reliable information to help you better understand advanced wound care options.

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