Wound Frequently Asked Questions
What is an acute wound?
An injury that occurs suddenly and heals in a predictable timeframe. Examples include minor cuts, lacerations, bites, abrasions.
What is a chronic wound?
A wound that can develop gradually over time. It does not heal within the expected timeframe of 4-6 weeks or fails to close within 3 months. Characteristics include inflammation, damage to underlying tissues, infection, impaired blood flow.
Who is at risk?
Those with diabetes, poor blood circulation (vascular disease), advanced age, obesity, immobility, weakened immune system, smoking history, high blood pressure, poor nutrition.
What are the most common types of wounds?
Ulcers (venous, arterial, diabetic, pressure), infected wounds, traumatic wounds, surgical wounds, radiation wounds, and ischemic wounds.
When should I call the doctor?
Any signs of infection (redness increases, swelling, pain, odor, drainage, pus, fever, warmth around wound) or the wound isn’t healing on an expected trajectory.
How to make an appointment: Call our office (385) 786-6100 to schedule an appointment.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
​What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
A medical treatment that combines both pressure and oxygen. The increased atmospheric pressure will simulate scuba diving at determined depths below sea level The pressure in the chamber is about 2-3 times greater than the atmospheric pressure. This increased pressure allows more oxygen to be dissolved into the blood and subsequently delivered to tissues to promote wound healing.​​​​​​​​​​​
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How does HBOT work?
Oxygen plays a crucial role in the tissues by facilitating the wound healing process. The air we breathe contains 21% oxygen. In a hyperbaric chamber, patients breathe nearly 100% medical-grade oxygen. Increasing the pressure inside the chamber allows oxygen to super saturate the circulating blood allowing absorption deeper into tissues and cells, speeding up healing.​
What is a mono-place hyperbaric chamber?
A clear plexiglass chamber for one patient.
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​Is HBOT right for me?
Although it is a good option for many people, it is not right for everyone. You can discuss with your healthcare provider during consultation.
​Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy dangerous?
The treatments are very safe. Advanced Wound Care & Hyperbaric Specialists have strict protocols that assure your safety and make each treatment comfortable and safe. Before your first treatment, you will be given a thorough orientation. Please feel free to investigate, ask questions and spend time with our team to make sure you understand all that will be involved during your treatment course. We look forward to meeting you and spending time with you as we work together to heal you and get you back to your normal daily routine.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy painful?
No. The sensation most commonly experienced is during the pressurization phase of treatment. The slowly increasing pressure can produce a sense of pressure on your eardrums. This is the same as you might experience when on an airplane or diving to the bottom of the swimming pool. The hyperbaric staff will instruct you about different equalization techniques to aid in relieving this ear pressure.
Can I eat or take medications before treatments?
Yes, however, there are a few limitations which will be discussed when you meet with the doctor.
If you have diabetes, make sure you eat before your treatment begins. A blood sugar value is required to be above 125 mg/Dl to start your treatment.
Can I drive after treatments?
Yes, HBOT does not impair your ability to drive. It is a non-invasive treatment.
Are Technicians trained?
Our technician is a Certified Hyperbaric Technician/Advanced Medical Technician/Safety Director.
How can I communicate with the technicians?
The chamber is equipped with two-way communication. You can talk to the technician at any time. The technician can talk to you through the chamber microphone.
What if I’m feeling sick?
If you have symptoms of the cold, flu, fever, or stomach issues you should contact your hyperbaric oxygen therapy provider to reschedule your treatment.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
The chambers are large and are made of acrylic shell which is transparent. From inside the chamber, it is possible to see out in all directions. At all times during your treatment, the hyperbaric technician is chamber side, available, and able to discuss any concerns that may arise. Every patient has specific needs, and our goal is to make you feel comfortable and at ease. If you feel anxious about treatment, your providers have the ability prescribe medication that will relax you and make your treatment less stressful. Using a medication of this caliber would require orchestration for transportation following your treatment.
What can I do while in the chamber?
Lay down comfortably in the chamber while listening to music, reading, or watching tv. Many patients simply use this time to catch up on well-deserved rest or meditation.
How many treatments will I need?
Each indication for HBO has unique treatment protocols. The number of treatments is not preset because each person responds differently to therapy. The average number of treatments range from 20-40. Our providers will determine the number of treatments needed during your initial consultation.
What clothes do I wear?
You will wear 100% cotton gowns or scrubs provided by our clinic. Please do not wear any of the following items when you come for your treatment:
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Hard contact lenses
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Make up
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Wigs, Hairpieces, or extensions
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Nail Polish
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Skin lotions
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Perfumes, cologne, or aftershave
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Jewelry including watches and earrings
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Hairspray or oils
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What if I must miss a treatment?
Consistent therapy is optimal. If you do have to miss a treatment, contact our clinic as soon as possible to reschedule. Missing several treatments can slow down the healing process.
Can someone stay with me during therapy?
To protect the privacy of our patients, family members may not remain with you during your treatment. A waiting room is provided for their comfort. A trained technician is always in the room during treatment, chamber side, and can communicate with you at any time. Your therapy will be supervised by a certified trained hyperbaric physician, nurse practitioner and monitored by a technician during every treatment.