Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a specialized medical treatment in which the patient breathes 100% oxygen inside a pressurized chamber.  Commonly known for its use in treating scuba diving complications, modern hyperbaric therapy is also used to treat stubborn non-healing wounds.  The therapy quickly delivers high concentrations of oxygen to the bloodstream, which assists in the healing process of wounds, and is effective in fighting certain types of infections.  It also helps to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels, which helps to improve circulation and wound healing.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments are administered daily at Northwest Hospital Center in Baltimore(Monday through Friday) over the course of several weeks, depending upon your diagnosis. 

Treating physicians, nurses and technicians are highly trained in the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.  HBOT physicians coordinate patient care directly with your referring physician.

Take A Look
View a 360 Degree Virtual Tour and photo gallery of the HBOT at Northwest Hospital Center

HBOT may be used in the treatment of:

• Diabetic wounds of the lower extremity
• Certain other problem wounds
• Infections involving flesh eating bacteria
• Chronic osteomyelitis (bone infection)
• Delayed radiation tissue damage
• Skin grafts and flaps
• Crush injuries, compartment syndrome, reperfusion injury
• Certain fungus infections

Preparation for Your Visit

For safety reasons, with few exceptions, you will not be allowed to take any items into the hyperbaric chamber except what is provided to you by the staff.  Please do not wear or bring the following items into the chamber during your treatment:

• Makeup
• Perfume
• After shave
• Hairspray/hair oils
• Wigs/hairpieces
• Nail polish
• Alcohol or petroleum based products
• Metallic items (jewelry, watches, coins, etc.)
• Flammable materials or heat producing items (heating pads or gloves)
• Hearing aids
• Food, gum or candy
• Lighters and cigarettes
• Pens

Do not smoke or use tobacco products over the entire course of therapy.  Tobacco use will prolong or even prevent healing of a wound site due to its constricting effect on the blood vessels in your body.

What to Expect During Treatment

Once you’re comfortably positioned inside the chamber, the pressure will gradually increase. You may experience fullness in your ears as a result.  The technician will instruct you in ways to help clear the pressure and relieve any discomfort.  Most treatment sessions in the chamber last approximately two hours.  During this time, you may watch TV or videos, relax or sleep.

When your treatment is complete, the chamber is restored to normal pressure.  The technician and staff will guide you through the entire process.

You may experience temporary vision changes (mild nearsightedness) that should return to your normal state a few weeks after your therapy is completed.  Our physicians recommend that you not change the prescription of your eyewear during the course of your therapy.  Some patients experience minor fatigue during treatment.  This is completely normal.

When You Arrive

After an initial consultation and examination, you will be ready to begin therapy.  You will receive complete instructions regarding your treatment.  Before treatment begins, you will change into a 100% cotton garment provided by Northwest Hospital.  For safety reasons, no other clothing may be worn inside the hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber, including underwear, feminine hygiene products and jewelry.

• Bring a list of any allergies and any medicine you are currently taking.
• Bring any medical records you may have and your insurance forms.
• If you have diabetes, bring snack food and your medication with you.

If You are Sick or on Medication
Please inform the staff at Northwest Hospital if you have a cold or cough, the flu, sore throat, chills, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.  Alert the staff to any medications you are taking or changes in medication before and during the course of your treatment.

If you are diabetic, please eat properly and continue to take your prescribed medication to control your blood sugar level.  Your blood sugar level will also be checked during each visit.

Other Important Information
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is usually administered on an outpatient basis.  If you drive, you may drive yourself to the facility for therapy and should allow up to two and one half-hours for each visit.  We recommend that someone accompany you for the evaluation and first treatment.

For more information about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy treatment at Northwest Hospital contact the treatment team at 410-521-8383.

Physicians

Jay Karpa, M.D.
Program Director
410-484-2888  

Alan Davis, M.D.
410-356-0410  

Richard Franklin, M.D.
410-356-0410