How does hyperbaric therapy benefit wound healing?

Hyperbaric therapy benefits wound healing primarily by enhancing oxygenation to ischemic tissues. During hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), the patient breathes 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which significantly increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the plasma. This elevated oxygen level allows for improved delivery of oxygen to tissues that are not receiving adequate perfusion due to vascular injury, infections, or other conditions. The increased availability of oxygen is crucial for cellular processes involved in wound healing, particularly in promoting the formation of new blood vessels, tissue regeneration, and combating infection.

Wound healing relies on a sufficient supply of oxygen, which is essential for the function of fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and endothelial cells, all of which play vital roles in tissue repair and regeneration. By facilitating oxygen diffusion into hypoxic (oxygen-deprived) tissues, hyperbaric therapy not only aids in healing but can also accelerate the recovery process and improve outcomes for patients suffering from chronic wounds or complex injuries.