The Hyperbaric Oxygen chamber is a seethrough plastic chamber that is build to withstand the increased pressure. This increased pressure, combined with the influx of oxygen, allows for enhanced healing. The pressure allows more oxygen than normal to be dissolved into the blood and tissues which works to heal patients' wounds or conditions.
This inpatient unit is the only hospital-based, publicly-funded program of its kind in Alberta. It is located at the Misericordia Community Hospital, and is a part of the Wound Care Program.
The Unit treats patients with conditions such as:
- chronic osteomyelitis,
- radiation tissue injury,
- chronic wound problems,
- crush injuries, and
- skin graft and flap support.
Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy is also effective in treating patients for carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism. To maximize healing, the therapy can be used in conjunction with a program of antibiotics, dressing changes and surgery.
A multi-disciplinary team of physicians and specially trained Respiratory Therapists work on the Hyperbaric Oxygen Unit. The length and frequency of treatments is individualized according to each patient, but therapy usually takes place once or twice a day for up to 2 ½ hours at a time. A Respiratory Therapist remains in the room with the patient at all times during the therapy.
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