Richmond University Medical Center was among the first healthcare providers on Staten Island to offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy, bringing this advanced treatment option to patients with complex wounds and other conditions requiring enhanced healing support.
The program is housed within our Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Therapy, where a multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive, patient-centered care.
To learn more about our wound care services click here.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a safe, noninvasive outpatient medical treatment prescribed by a doctor to enhance the body’s ability to heal. During hyperbaric oxygen therapy, patients breathe 100% pure oxygen while inside a pressurized chamber. The pressure inside our hyperbaric chamber is about two and a half times greater than the normal pressure in the atmosphere. This high-pressure environment allows the blood to carry more oxygen to all parts of your body to repair injured tissue. It also helps to fight certain infections, such as those that occur in the bone.
Conditions Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be used to treat certain wounds and medical conditions that can benefit from increased oxygen delivery to damaged tissue. Based on your condition and medical history, our specialists will determine whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy is appropriate for you.
Conditions that may be treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy include:
- Certain diabetic foot ulcers
- Radiation-related tissue damage
- Chronic bone infections, including osteomyelitis
- Compromised skin grafts and flaps
- Crush injuries and other acute traumatic injuries involving reduced blood flow
- Certain other difficult-to-heal wounds that meet established criteria for hyperbaric oxygen therapy
What to Expect During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Before your treatment begins, our team will explain what to expect and help you prepare for your hyperbaric oxygen therapy session.
Before Your Treatment
You will be provided with a hospital gown to wear inside the hyperbaric chamber. For your safety, cosmetics, perfumes, hair products, deodorant, wigs, jewelry and electronic devices are not permitted in the chamber.
Please let your hyperbaric oxygen therapy technician know about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any medical devices you use. Many implanted medical devices, including most pacemakers, can be accommodated, but our team will review your specific device before treatment.
Patients should avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages for at least four hours before treatment. Smoking and other tobacco products can reduce the body’s ability to transport oxygen and may interfere with healing. If you use tobacco, our team can provide guidance and support to help you stop during your treatment period.
During Your Treatment
Each therapy session typically lasts about two hours. Most patients find the treatment comfortable and are able to relax or sleep, watch television or listen to music during their session.
As the pressure inside the chamber changes, you may experience fullness or a popping sensation in your ears, similar to what you might feel during an airplane flight or while driving in the mountains. Your hyperbaric oxygen therapy technician will show you simple techniques to help equalize the pressure and relieve this sensation.
Staying on Schedule
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is generally provided once a day over the course of several weeks, depending on your individual treatment plan. Consistency is important. Much like completing a prescribed course of medication, receiving your treatments as scheduled helps provide the greatest opportunity to achieve the intended benefit.
We understand that coming to the center regularly is a commitment. Our team will work with you throughout your treatment to help ensure you to keep every scheduled appointment.
Following your treatment plan is an important part of supporting the healing process. If you have questions or concerns at any point during your therapy, please speak with a member of your care team. We are here to help you feel informed, comfortable and confident throughout your treatment.
Meet Our Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Partner
Richmond University Medical Center’s hyperbaric oxygen therapy program is proud to partner with RestorixHealth, a national leader in wound care and hyperbaric medicine management. RestorixHealth supports healthcare providers across the country with proven clinical protocols, hyperbaric medicine expertise, advanced training programs, and a culture of safety that helps ensure the highest standards of patient care.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has a wound that is of concern or is not healing properly, please call (718) 818-3703 today to schedule an appointment.
