As the tri-state area’s first Level I Trauma Center with a multiplace hyperbaric oxygen chamber, Nassau University Medical Center has long been a regional leader in the use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment (HBOT) to treat hard-to-heal wounds (see Wound Management), diving accidents and other problems, including:
- Diabetic Lower-Extremity Ulcers
- Bone Infections (osteomyelitis)
- Crush Injuries
- Necrotizing Infections
- Acute Arterial Insufficiency
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- Complications Following Radiation Therapy
- Decompression Illness (“the bends”)
- Gas Gangrene
- Compromised Flaps and Grafts
What’s more, HBO therapy is being found useful in treating more and more conditions every year, and is currently being evaluated for its effectiveness in the treatment of heart attacks and strokes.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatments (HBOT) deliver pure oxygen to a patient in an airtight chamber at an atmospheric pressure that is greater than normal. Traditionally associated with the treatment of decompression illness (what divers refer to as “the bends”), HBOT has more recently emerged as a leading therapy in the treatment of problem wounds, infections and trauma. Under high pressure, blood is able to absorb more oxygen, which, when carried to damaged or infected tissue, promotes faster healing.
HBOT at Nassau University Medical Center
In operation since 1996, NuHealth’s HBO Chamber is located within the Wound Care Center at Nassau University Medical Center. It is staffed by board-certified physicians, as well as nationally certified nurses and technicians with many years of patient care experience. Our multi-place HBO Chamber can accommodate up to six patients at one time. During treatments, patients, along with a medical attendant, are pressurized and allowed to breathe pure, 100% oxygen. The vast majority of patients are seen on an outpatient basis, and they can read or nap in recliners during the painless 90-minute treatments. Even critically ill patients can be treated, since necessary technical and nursing staff can accompany them in the chamber. There is also a mono-place chamber for patients who prefer lying down in a single chamber.
For an appointment, consultation or further information, please call 1-888-HBO-HEAL (1-888-426-4325).
Clinical Staff
David Parizh, MD