Limb Preservation Center of East Tennessee is thrilled to announce the latest addition to our advanced wound care services – Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). We have installed two state-of-the-art hyperbaric chambers at our practice in Lenoir City, TN, to bring this innovative treatment to our community.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has a variety of benefits inside and outside of wound care. In this blog post, we’ll explore what HBOT is, the benefits of HBOT, and what the HBOT experience is like at Limb Preservation of East Tennessee.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, and How Does It Work?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing in 100% pure, pressurized oxygen – a significant increase from the 21% oxygen we normally breathe. HBOT takes place in a specially designed chamber, enabling individuals to inhale higher levels of oxygen than usual.
HBOT works by:
- Delivering oxygen-rich blood to tissues
- Blocking bacterial toxins
- Strengthening the immune system
- Promoting tissue growth
Delivering Oxygen-Rich Blood to Tissues
The heightened oxygen levels increase the amount of oxygen carried by the blood, reaching oxygen-starved tissues more effectively.
Blocking Bacterial Toxins
HBOT inhibits the harmful effects of some bacterial toxins, aiding in the healing of wounds and infections.
Strengthening the Immune System
The therapy enhances the body’s immune response, promoting a more robust defense against infections.
Promoting Tissue Growth
HBOT stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, skin cells, and collagen, fostering accelerated healing and tissue regeneration.
These benefits make HBOT a remarkable, advanced treatment option for our patients. We are proud to bring its healing power to the Lenoir City, TN, area and beyond!
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Good For?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is good for treating a variety of conditions as approved by the FDA, including chronic wounds. At Limb Preservation of East Tennessee, HBOT is a safe and effective treatment that can be part of a comprehensive plan to prevent amputation and help you heal.
Some common reasons for undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy include:
- Limb-threatening diabetic wounds (non-healing, diabetic foot ulcers)
- Soft tissue and bone that have been damaged by radiation treatments
- Compromised skin grafts and flaps following surgery
- Crush injuries
- Compartment syndrome
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL)
- Acute peripheral ischemias
- Chronic refractory osteomyelitis (bone infection)
- Necrotizing infections
The Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Experience
Before your HBOT session, our experienced team, led by Dr. Heather Hutchings, will provide you with specific preparation guidelines. Patients are required to remove jewelry, glasses, and hearing aids before entering the chamber. You will also receive a clean gown to wear for the session.
Prior to entering the chamber, our team will walk you through the entire process, take your temperature, and measure your blood pressure. These precautions allow us to ensure you are prepared and healthy before the treatment begins.
Inside the chamber, the HBOT process is painless, and patients can relax and breathe normally. You may experience a temporary plugged-ear feeling, similar to what one might experience during air travel.
Each of our chambers also has a television/DVD player available to you, or many patients prefer to fall asleep during their session. Our Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Technician and Safety Officer, Maggie Smith, CST, NRA-EMT, will be right by your side throughout the session in case you need anything.
HBOT sessions typically last 90 minutes, but will depend on individual needs. Our team at Limb Preservation Center of East Tennessee is committed to ensuring a comfortable and effective HBOT experience for every patient.
How Much Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Cost?
The cost of hyperbaric oxygen therapy can vary based on several factors, including:
- The duration and frequency of sessions
- The complexity of the medical condition being treated
- Individual insurance coverage
It’s important to note that many insurance plans recognize the therapeutic benefits of HBOT for specific conditions. Your insurance plan may cover part or all of the expenses.
For example, Medicare may cover HBOT for conditions like:
- Diabetic wounds of the lower extremities
- Crush injuries and suturing of severed limbs
- Preparation and preservation of compromised skin grafts
Before your HBOT treatment, our team at Limb Preservation Center of East Tennessee will discuss costs and help you explore all available options for payment. We are committed to working with you to make this transformative therapy accessible.
Book Your Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Appointment
If you’re considering HBOT and would like to experience the benefits firsthand, booking your appointment at Limb Preservation Center of East Tennessee is a simple and straightforward process. Call us at 865-770-5462 or use our online scheduling feature to take the first step toward healing. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through the HBOT process and answer any questions you may have.
Limb Preservation Center of East Tennessee is the newest and most advanced wound care practice in Lenoir City, Tennessee. Are you looking for experienced wound care that’s convenient and near home? Call Limb Preservation Center of East Tennessee at 865-770-5462 or request an appointment online to arrange a comprehensive chronic wound evaluation with our wound healing experts.
