Hyperbaric Medicine

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Simple and Effective

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a treatment in which the patient breathes 100% oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. The therapy quickly delivers high concentrations of oxygen to the bloodstream, assists in the healing process of wounds and is effective in fighting certain types of infections. It also stimulates the growth of new blood vessels and improves circulation. Treatments are administered daily (Monday through Friday) and the number you receive will depend on your diagnosis. If you have any questions regarding your condition and if hyperbaric oxygen can help, please contact us.

For further information, contact us at 816-655-5780

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The center is part of an elite group accredited by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS). UHMS accredited facilities have met the highest standards of care and patient safety. Presently there are only 6 centers in Missouri that hold this accreditation. Additionally, we are the only Jackson county wound and hyperbaric department with the distinguished UHMS accreditation www.uhms.com.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions including:

Acute peripheral arterial insufficiency
Enhancement of healing in selected problem wounds
Crush injuries
Gas gangrene
Necrotizing soft tissue infections
Chronic refractory osteomyelitis
Radiation tissue damage (example of side effect is radiation cystitis)
Compromised Skin grafts and flaps
Severe diabetic foot ulcers

When You Arrive at the Center

After an initial consultation and examination at the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine, you will be ready to begin your therapy. When you arrive, you will receive complete instructions regarding your treatment. Before starting, you will change into a 100% cotton garment provided by the center. For safety reasons, no other clothing may be worn inside the hyperbaric oxygen chamber.

What to Expect During Treatment

Once you are comfortably positioned inside the chamber, the pressure will gradually be increased and the temperature will temporarily rise. You may experience fullness in your ears as a result of the increased pressure. 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. While undergoing treatment, you may watch TV or videos, simply relax or even sleep.

When your treatment is complete, the chamber is restored to normal pressure and the interior of the chamber will cool somewhat. Our Hyperbaric RN and staff will guide you through the entire process.

If you have questions or need further information, call the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine at St. Mary’s Medical Center
at 816-655-5780 or fax 816-655-5779.