Hyperbaric Medicine
The Monoplace chamber is comprised of a seamless acrylic material. These chambers are pressurized
with 100% oxygen instead of air. Patients are lying on a stretcher and are able to watch television
(looking through the acrylic walls) or listen to music (through the intercom system) or nap.
What are the benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) dramatically raises the oxygen level in the boodstream and dissolves oxygen
into the tissues. HBOT also increases the white blood cells ability to kill bacteria, reduces local
swelling and promotes the growth of new blood vessels.
What is HBOT used to treat?
HBOT is a medical therapy that is used to treat a limited but diverse series of illnesses. It aides in the
healing of certain wounds and other disorders including:
- Diabetic leg and foot wounds
- Gas gangrene
- Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis
(bone infection that has not responded to the usual treatments of
surgery and antibiotics)
- Radiation injuries
(cystitis, proctitis, enteritis, osteoradionecrosis, and non-healing skin
ulcers)
- Compressed skin grafts and flaps
(edges of a surgical wound with inadequate blood flow)
- Crush injuries / Compartment Syndrome
- Anaerobic infections
- Cyanide poisoning
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Air or gas embolism
- Decompression illness
- Thermal burns
- Enhancement of healing in select problem wounds
- Necrotizing soft tissue infections
How does a Doctor prescribe HBOT?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is usually offered as a referral and consultation service. A consultation
appointment will be made for the patient once appropriate case documentation has been received.
Patients can also call to set up a consultation appointment.
How long do treatments last?
Most treatments (established by the Hyperbaric physician and sometimes referred to as a "dive") last
approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours administered once a day. Some indications may require diving two or three times
daily, although this is rare. Treatments range from 10 to 40 total dives, or more if indicated. Typical treatments
are administered on an outpatient basis.
Is this safe?
While every medical treatment has some degree of risk, the Hyperbaric Medicine Department at Cache Valley
Specialty Hospital takes appropriate steps to ensure patient safety. Our Hyperbaric Chambers meet all
Federal, State, Local and Hospital safety guidelines. All patients must be screened by a Hyperbaric
physician before being approved for treatment. Treatments are attended by Physicians with Hyperbaric
Medicine and Diving training and experienced Hyperbaric Technologists and Registered Nurses.
Looking for more information?
If you still have questions, you can either call us at 713-1350 or check out these sites: