Thermal Burns
HBOT (hyperbaric oxygen therapy or hyperbaric oxygenation therapy) is a treatment where someone sits inside a special pressurised chamber and breathes nearly pure oxygen via an oxygen mask. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood plasma which makes it easier for the body to deliver the oxygen to the cells that need it to recover and heal. This therapy helps heal thermal burns by increasing oxygen delivery, reducing swelling, fighting infection and accelerating healing. This innovative therapy complements traditional burn treatments, with some studies suggesting HBOT can help shorten hospital stays, treatment time, reduce the risk of infection and improve overall recovery outcomes (e.g. reduce scarring). HBOT is used extensively in the USA, Korea, Japan and Europe to treat burns injuries.
How HBOT Works for Thermal Burns
1. Increases Oxygen Supply:
When someone is burned badly, the blood vessels are damaged, which makes it harder for the body to get oxygen to the injured area. The injured tissue needs oxygen to heal. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which helps to heal the damaged tissues.
2. New Blood Vessel Growth:
HBOT stimulates the body to grow new blood vessels, which improves the blood supply to the burn site.
3. Reduces Inflammation and Swelling:
Burns cause swelling and inflammation in the injured area, this is the body’s reaction to the injury. HBOT helps to reduce the inflammation by lowering the levels of harmful proteins that contribute to this inflammation. Burns often cause swelling, which blocks blood flow. HBOT reduces this swelling, allowing better blood flow to the injured area.
4. Boosts Collagen Production:
HBOT helps produce collagen, an important protein that is one of the body’s building blocks. The body needs collagen to form new skin and close wounds.
5. Fights Infection:
Burn patients are very vulnerable to infection. A burn damages the skin which is the barrier that protects the body from infection. HBOT boosts the ability of white blood cells to fight off infections and helps stop the growth of harmful bacteria. HBOT also helps to reduce the risk of infection by reducing the amount of time it takes the body to form new skin and close the wound..
Benefits of HBOT for Thermal Burns
HBOT offers several key benefits for treating thermal burns:
Faster Healing Times:
HBOT can speed up repair of damaged skin and tissue, it can help burns heal faster.Better Recovery:
HBOT can help lower the risk of complications, and improve chances of a full recovery with better function. HBOT can enable better recovery and return to normal function. HBOT can boost the chances of skin grafts taking hold successfully, helping burn victims heal more effectively.Pain Relief:
By helping the body heal itself and reducing swelling, HBOT can help lessen pain, both during and after a session.Lower Risk of Infection:
HBOT helps the body fight infections, which are a common concern for burn victims.Less Scarring:
HBOT promotes the production of collagen, a protein crucial for skin repair, which can lead to better-quality healing and potentially less noticeable scars.
Clinical Evidence and Practical Considerations
Client Selection:
HBOT is typically recommended for wide range of thermal burns, and many plastic surgeons are recommending HBOT as part of a comprehensive burn treatment plan. Please consult with your physician. OxyGeneration is non-emergency facility and should only be used as part of a follow-up care plan.
Clients need to fully disclose any conditions that might make the treatment risky, such as certain lung problems. Where required, an evaluation by a doctor before treatment ensures safety and helps determine if HBOT is the right choice for each client. Please note that OxyGeneration does not provide diagnostic services and is a treatment provide only. We strongly encourage all clients to consult with their medical team if required.Treatment Protocols:
Treatments usually last 60 to 90 minutes per session and are conducted daily over several weeks. Every individual is different and we recommend consulting with your medical team about incorporating HBOT into your care plan. To help determine how many sessions each individual will require, new clients can speak with OxyGeneration staff prior to commencing their Hyperbaric Oxygenation Therapy.Monitoring Progress:
Regular assessments are crucial to track healing progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Conclusion
HBOT is an important adjunct treatment options for thermal burns. It increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, helps to reduce swelling and inflammation, promotes healing, and fights infection. HBOT can improve recovery, reduce pain and lessen scarring, leading to a better quality of life for burn patients.
For further information on the use of HBOT for thermal burns, please visit our resources page by clicking the link below.