Absolutely. For some indications such as complicated wounds in diabetic ulcers etc... this is very well established and widely accepted. In fact treatment for these conditions are a compensable benefit under OHIP and the RAMQ for Canadian citizens.
For other indications, such as brain injury, cerebral palsy and stroke, there is a scarcity of research in this area. Since 1999 we have treated many cases of cerebral palsy with good to excellent results. There is a lot of case study and anecdotal evidence which supports the use of HBOT in brain injured children and adults. The experience with HBOT has been enormous in the United States and a great deal of expertise exists in the field. Dr. Richard Neubauer has been a long standing proponent of HBOT and his experience in the field has been very positive.
It is very difficult to predict outcomes for each individual who undergoes HBOT. We do not promise complete recovery in any case, but we do believe that there will be improvement in quality of life gained with "small" improvement of deficits, due to brain injury.
Monoplace or Multiplace
Chamber?
A monoplace chamber is designed to accommodate one person, or one child with an attendant. These chambers are usually pressurized with 100 percent oxygen. There is no need to use hoods or masks as the entire environment within the chamber is filled with 100 percent oxygen. Obviously this is a much more comfortable way to receive treatment. Also, the treatment can be customized to best suit each individual. For example, if someone is having difficulty reaching the desired pressure, the rate at which the chamber is pressurized can be adjusted to suit that particular person. Our clinic uses 3 monoplace chambers.
A multi-place chamber is a larger chamber designed to accommodate two or more persons. These chambers are usually pressurized with compressed air, and the oxygen is delivered to the person receiving treatment by means of a hood worn over the head, or a mask worn over the nose and mouth. Some people find this uncomfortable, and children often find it frightening. If two or more individuals are receiving treatment in the same chamber at the same time it is obviously more difficult to accommodate any deviations from the usual procedure to better meet the needs of any one person. If you are planning to undertake hyperbaric oxygen therapy, you must look very carefully at the chambers in which you will receive treatment. Please make sure they are PVHO approved, meaning they are safe for human occupancy. Make sure that there is a fire suppression system in the chambers.
Is HBOT For Everyone?
No. The examining physican carries out a complete medical assessment on each person who will be entering a chamber before treatment can begin. Your safety is the most important issue, and you will never be permitted to undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy if we consider you to be at risk of harm.
Copyright 2003 TERAPIA by Ottawa HyperBaric Oxygen Therapy
