More than 1 in 10 people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer — a wound that won’t heal or keeps returning — at some point in their lives. So it’s no surprise that at Advanced Wound Care at Temple University Hospital – Episcopal Campus, diabetic foot ulcers are one of the most common conditions we treat.
Whether a wound starts with a cut, a blister, or an ingrown nail, diabetic foot ulcers can be hard for the body to heal naturally. And they can lead to serious outcomes, such as amputation or sepsis. So when local wound care, vascular evaluation, antibiotics, and other approaches don’t work, I turn to advanced options. In appropriate cases, that means hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Here’s what I want patients to know about this high-tech, painless care.
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Wounds require oxygen to heal. Research has shown that exposure to 100% oxygen may speed healing by repairing tissues and restoring normal bodily functions. That’s where HBOT comes in.
HBOT is used to treat wounds like those caused by burns, radiation, and diabetes. With this treatment, your body is exposed to 100% oxygen. This happens in an enclosed space in which the air pressure is higher than normal.
How does HBOT for diabetic foot ulcers work?
Foot ulcers damage blood vessels, or inadequate blood supply can contribute to ulcers. In turn, this lack of oxygen can make the tissues start to die. The result can be wounds that won’t heal and that become infected. For some people with diabetes, this can lead to amputation.
HBOT uses a hyperbaric chamber — a sealed space with air pressure 1.5 to 3 times higher than average — to deliver oxygen-rich plasma to the damaged tissues. This engineered environment increases the amount of oxygen in the blood. That infusion of oxygen:
- Encourages new collateral blood vessels, collagen, and skin cells to grow
- Helps block harmful bacteria
- Boosts the immune system
Who can HBOT help?
In my practice, I’ve seen this treatment make a significant difference for people with a variety of concerns. Many of my patients are dealing with painful sores that aren’t responding to other treatments. Others experience repeated infections, and some have gone through months of dressings and antibiotics, only to have their healing stall. If any of these situations sound all too familiar, HBOT may help decrease your pain and jump-start your recovery.
Our goal is to help you find relief and heal. HBOT is a pain-free treatment that empowers many people to do just that.
What can I expect from my HBOT session?
If you and your care team determine HBOT is right for you, you’ll schedule a series of treatments. The number of sessions depends on your specific situation, but it may be 30 or more. Each treatment will follow the same basic, five-step routine:
- You’ll be given a gown or scrubs to wear. It’s important that you don’t take anything into the chamber. We may also ask you to avoid hair spray or skin care products.
- We will help you into the hyperbaric chamber. It’s a big clear tube built for one person. You can sit or lie comfortably, and there’s a television available. You can also speak to us at any time.
- As the air pressure is raised, your ears might start to feel plugged up. The sensation is like being on an airplane. If you swallow or chew gum, your ears will “pop” back to normal.
- You’ll relax in the chamber for the allotted time, which is usually 60 to 90 minutes. Then, the air pressure will be lowered. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
- We’ll help you out of the chamber and do a quick health assessment. Once we decide that you’re ready, you can change your clothes and be on your way.
HBOT is painless and non-invasive. Most people find it to be relaxing and experience few side effects. The most common side effects are mild and related to the change in air pressure. These include ear pain, fatigue, and temporary vision changes.
How can I find out if HBOT is the right treatment for my diabetic foot ulcer?
Find the best way to treat your wound at Advanced Wound Care at Temple University Hospital – Episcopal Campus. Our caring team of experts is ready to help you move forward with your healing.
To get started, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or request an appointment online.