Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used to treat some chronic, nonhealing wounds. Initially utilized to treat decompression sickness in divers, HBOT is now used for a number of medical problems, both chronic and acute. It is a simple yet effective treatment process in which a patient breathes pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber, allowing the greatest amount of oxygen to make its way into the lungs. Since the healing process is highly dependent on having enough oxygen, exposing the body to high levels of oxygen stimulates its natural healing capabilities.

For more information about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, visit MedStarHealth.org/WoundHealing