Treatment is delivered by one of three Sechrist hyperbaric chambers. The chamber is transparent, which allows for the patient see out, as well as allowing our board-certified medical staff to monitor the patient. Each chamber is equipped with a communication device that allows for interaction between our staff and the patient. During the treatment, the patient is able to watch television, DVD's, or listen to CD's.
Generally you will experience no after-effects from HBO therapy. However, some patients report a “crackling” sensation in their ears after treatments. Clearing your ears will relieve this sensation. Some patients report feeling light-headed for a few minutes following treatment, but this is only for a brief period, and they are soon able to continue with their normal daily activities. At the completion of each treatment, the patient will be evaluated by one of our physicians and discharged from the unit.
Upon arrival to our facility, the patient's vital signs will be obtained, blood glucose levels will be evaluated (for diabetic patients) and any prescribed medication will be given to facilitate the treatment. The patient may be placed in a 100 % cotton gown and may be placed on a cardiac monitor. As the patient descends to the prescribed atmospheric pressure, the sensation of "popping" in their ears may occur. This effect is the result of changing pressure and occurs during pressurization (descent) and depressurization (ascent). The typical length of treatment is 120 minutes. The length of treatment may vary dependant on the treatment protocol.
During HBOT, the patient will breath 100% oxygen at a pressure of 2.0 to 3.0 atmospheres. The pressure at which a patient is treated is determined by the physician’s diagnosis. Treatment protocols have been established by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society for each indication utilized by Hyperbaric Oxygen of Kansas City, Inc.