Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a provisionally accepted, innovative medical treatment that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves the administration of 100% oxygen at a greater-than-normal atmospheric pressure delivered in a hyperbaric chamber. The increased pressure enables patients to absorb oxygen molecules more effectively into their bloodstream, which helps treat various medical conditions. Originally used to treat decompression sickness in divers and astronauts, this beneficial therapy is now possibly used to counteract the effects of hypoxic or anoxic injuries or illnesses and to assist with wound healing from injuries such as burns or diabetic foot ulcers. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may ultimately help improve long-term patient outcomes for multiple diagnosis types.
Types of HBOT Chambers
Hyperbaric chambers are pressurized vessels commonly associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) medical treatment. Hyperbaric chambers created for HBOT can be fitted with an array of unique features, such as a closed-circuit television, an alarm system, electrical outlets, and a ventilation system, ensuring a safe environment during treatments. With the many features they can include, chambers can give off a sterile, hospital-like atmosphere, allowing doctors to provide medical care to their patients effectively.
The best way to achieve the best results in an HBOT chamber is all about finding what works for you. Evaluating how different types of chambers allow us to pinpoint and utilize methods to help us reach our goals faster.
- Monoplace Chambers
A monoplace chamber is a pressurized chamber. As the name implies, a monoplace chamber is only capable of accommodating one person at a time. Patients are slipped inside these chambers and subjected to 100% oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure levels set to meet their specific medical needs. Such particular control of the environment allows doctors to provide the greatest possible therapeutic outcome over time. This helps patients with various conditions, such as chronic wounds, decompression sickness, and stroke-induced paralysis, regain their quality of life.
Pros:
Monoplace chambers offer significant advancements as patients are not limited by their shared space. Instead, they can have their own chamber. This allows for more comfort and relaxation during HBOT sessions.
- Multiplace Chambers
Multiplace chambers differ from monoplace chambers in that they can simultaneously house two or more people for treatment with compressed air or pure oxygen. Patients must wear a special mask to breathe the oxygen. An organized team of technicians works diligently around the clock to operate the chamber and monitor its function while patients receive their treatments.
Pros:
By having more than one person in the chamber during treatments, this type of therapy is often more cost-effective and convenient for both patients and caregivers alike.
Cons:
Patients may feel uneasy during the treatment sitting in a room full of other people (especially those you don’t know). Moreover, they may even feel claustrophobic, thus making the environment difficult to relax in.
Image Credit: Medspace - Soft-Sided Hyperbaric Chambers
Also known as soft HBOT chambers and mild hyperbaric chambers, soft-sided hyperbaric chambers are an excellent alternative to monoplace or multiplace chambers. This chamber is usually for individuals looking to reap the benefits of this hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the comfort of their homes. It does not require visiting the facility or an established treatment center. A soft hyperbaric chamber can provide an oxygen level of only up to 21%, compared to the 100% oxygen found in monoplace or multiplace chambers.
Pros:
Soft-sided chambers can be used in the comfort of your home, and a doctor’s recommendation is not needed. They are suitable and approved for the treatment of mountain sickness.
Cons:
FDA does not approve soft-side chambers for treatments (apart from mountain sickness). They can provide only 21% oxygen. Thus, they aren’t very effective.
- Hard-Sided Hyperbaric Chambers
Hard-sided HBOT chambers have become famous for their therapeutic benefits because they provide a higher oxygen concentration than soft-shell chambers. They can deliver 100% oxygen, unlike soft-based chambers, which only give the patient 21% oxygen. The FDA officially approves them to treat a wide range of medical conditions, ranging from surgically damaged tissue and carbon monoxide poisoning to wound healing and infection. Furthermore, studies are revealing an even more comprehensive array of applications; recently, other indications, such as cancer treatments, traumatic brain injuries, and certain skin disorders, have seen encouraging results.
Which Treatment Should You Choose?
While hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used to treat various ailments, it’s vital to understand that there are two distinct types of HBOT: hard-sided and soft-sided. Each type has specific uses and can offer different benefits; hard-sided chambers are mainly used for the treatment of non-healing wounds, while soft-sided chambers can help people suffering from acute mountain sickness. Besides this, soft-based chambers cannot be helpful for any other treatment. For those hoping to take advantage of hyperbaric oxygen benefits, it’s essential to know whether the chamber you use will be hard or soft, as this information will play a critical role in affecting the outcome of your therapy.
Why Choose Hue Light USA for Your Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
At Hue Light USA, our monoplace hyperbaric capsule offers state-of-the-art therapy through HBOT technology. Our innovative approach allows high-quality treatments to take place in a comfortable environment for patients to enjoy the benefits of this revolutionary therapy. We understand the importance of staying informed, which is why we’re here to answer any of your questions. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you along the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
Get started on improving your well-being by scheduling an appointment with us today and start working towards better health. Get in touch with us at 845-796-9951, or you can always drop us an email at info@huelightusa.com.