Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Indications, Contraindications, and Use at a Tertiary Care Center

The indications for the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy have expanded greatly in the last 200 years. This article provides a brief history of hyperbaric oxygen, reviews the indications and contraindications for its use, and presents an overview of the hyperbaric oxygen program at a tertiary care facility. We describe three common indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy: osteomyelitis, delayed radiation injury, and graft or flap compromise. We also discuss therapeutic protocols for treatment with hyperbaric oxygen at our facility. Patients with a wide range of diagnoses have access to hyperbaric oxygen therapy 24 hours per day and seven days per week at our facility, in addition to a well-qualified team of health care providers who strive to deliver optimal patient care.