Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The treatment can increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and tissues, which may promote healing and enhance the body’s natural defenses against infection and injury.

During HBOT, the patient enters a chamber that is pressurized with pure oxygen, typically at 1.5 to 3 times the atmospheric pressure at sea level. The patient breathes the oxygen through a mask or mouthpiece, while resting or watching TV. The treatment session typically lasts for 60 to 90 minutes.

HBOT has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as:

• Decompression sickness, a condition that affects scuba divers who rise too quickly from deep water
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Healing of certain types of wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers or radiation-induced tissue damage
• Certain infections, such as gangrene or necrotizing fasciitis
• Radiation injury from cancer treatment
• Other conditions, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, or autism

Combination of HBOT and stem cell therapy

The combination of HBOT and stem cell therapy is an emerging approach in regenerative medicine. HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which effectively increases the amount of oxygen in the body’s tissues. Stem Cell Therapy utilizes stem cells to promote tissue repair and regeneration. The rationale behind combining these therapies is that the increased oxygen levels provided by HBOT can enhance the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of transplanted stem cells, potentially improving their therapeutic effects.

HBOT creates a favorable environment for stem cells by increasing oxygen availability, which is essential for their metabolic activity and cellular processes. It may enhance the viability and functionality of stem cells, leading to improved tissue repair and regeneration. Additionally, HBOT has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which may further support the success of stem cell therapy by reducing inflammation and promoting a more favorable healing environment.

However, it is important to note that the combination of HBOT and stem cell therapy is still in the early stages of research, further studies are needed to determine the optimal protocols, timing, and specific conditions where this combination may be most beneficial.

How HBOT works?

HBOT is generally considered a safe procedure, but it is not appropriate for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled high fever, severe lung disease, or untreated pneumothorax, may not be good candidates for HBOT and should consult with their healthcare provider before pursuing the treatment.

The length and frequency of HBOT treatment will depend on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. Some conditions may require only a few sessions, while others may require daily or weekly treatment over several weeks or months.

Overall, HBOT can be an effective way to promote healing and enhance the body’s natural defenses against infection and injury, when used appropriately and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.