Name of the Procedure:

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) - Hyperbaric Oxygen Under Pressure, Full Body Chamber, Per 30 Minute Interval (HCPCS Code: G0277)

Summary

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, typically within a full-body chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can help heal wounds and fight infections more effectively.

Purpose

HBOT is used to treat various medical conditions by enhancing the body's natural healing processes with high-pressure oxygen. The primary goal is to improve oxygen delivery to tissues, reduce swelling, and promote healing, especially in areas with poor blood supply.

Indications

• Chronic non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers
• Certain types of infections like necrotizing fasciitis
• Decompression sickness (the bends)
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Radiation tissue damage
• Severe anemia when blood transfusions are not possible

Preparation

• Avoid smoking and alcohol 24 hours before the session.
• Eat a light meal before the therapy to avoid nausea.
• Remove all personal items, lotions, and cosmetics to prevent any contaminants in the chamber.
• Follow your doctor's instructions regarding medications, as some may need to be adjusted prior to the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will enter a full-body chamber designed to withstand high pressure.
2. The chamber is then gradually pressurized with 100% oxygen while the patient breathes normally.
3. A session usually lasts 30 minutes at a time, during which the patient can relax, sleep, or listen to music.

4. The pressure is then slowly decreased back to normal atmospheric levels.

   Tools and Equipment:

   • Full-body hyperbaric chamber
   • Oxygen delivery system
   • Monitoring equipment to track vital signs

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• No anesthesia or sedation is typically required as the procedure is non-invasive and generally comfortable.

Duration

Each session typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour. The number of sessions needed can vary depending on the condition being treated.

Setting

HBOT is performed in specialized clinics, hospitals, or outpatient centers equipped with hyperbaric chambers.

Personnel

• Trained Medical Technicians
• Physicians specialized in Hyperbaric Medicine
• Nurses for patient monitoring and support

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Ear discomfort or barotrauma due to pressure changes
• Temporary vision changes
• Claustrophobia

Rare Risks:

• Lung collapse (pneumothorax)
• Oxygen toxicity
• Seizures (extremely rare, typically only in prolonged sessions or very high pressures)

Benefits

• Faster and more effective wound healing
• Reduced infection rates
• Improved outcomes for specific acute conditions like carbon monoxide poisoning
• Enhanced blood flow and reduced swelling

Benefits are often noticed within a few sessions, but multiple treatments may be required for full effect.

Recovery

• Normal activities can usually be resumed immediately after a session.
• Regular follow-ups may be necessary to monitor the healing process.
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol is essential for optimal recovery and treatment outcomes.

Alternatives

• Topical and systemic oxygen delivery methods
• Enhanced wound care and specialized dressings
• Surgical intervention, if necessary

Pros of Alternatives:

• Non-invasive
• May be suitable for patients who are claustrophobic or have contraindications to HBOT

Cons of Alternatives:

• May not be as effective for certain conditions
• Longer recovery periods

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The patient may feel pressure in the ears similar to flying in an airplane.
• Generally comfortable, with options for entertainment like music.

After the Procedure:

• Minimal discomfort
• Mild fatigue in some cases
• Pain management is typically not required, but over-the-counter pain relief can be used if needed.