Expediting recovery: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy and bone repair
Explore the benefits HBOT provides for bone restoration
In the realm of medical advancements, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has surfaced as a promising medical treatment for expediting the recovery process in diverse medical conditions. An incredibly effective application lies in its capability to bolster bone repair.
This article delves into the scientific groundwork of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and its influence on the healing of bones, substantiated by statistical data and comprehensive details.
The bone repair process
Before diving into the benefits of HBOT on bone repair, it’s essential to understand the natural process of bone healing. Bone repair involves complex events, including inflammation, soft callus formation, hard callus formation, and remodeling.
Our bones are living tissue, just the same as other parts of the body. Osteoblasts and osteoclasts are two vital cells in charge of bone growth and development. Osteoblasts grow, reshape, and heal damaged or broken bones, while osteoclasts dissolve and break down old or damaged bone cells. These cells work together to form new bone cells and break down old or damaged bone tissue. [1]
Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis arises from bacterial or mycobacterial infection in the bone or marrow, posing a treatment challenge due to the limited blood vessels in the bone and the insufficient penetration of many antimicrobials.
Osteomyelitis affects about 2 to 5 out of every 10,000 people. It’s one of the oldest diseases on record. Scientists have traced it back more than 250 million years. [2] Refractory osteomyelitis, characterized by a lack of response or recurrence post-treatment, becomes a chronic issue. Individuals with osteomyelitis affecting the spine, skull, or sternum face elevated risks of morbidity and mortality.
Standard approaches to address chronic and refractory osteomyelitis involve surgical debridement and the administration of antibiotics guided by culture results. [3]
How HBOT can help
Oxygen influences cell metabolism and collagen synthesis and regulates various growth factors. Hyperbaric oxygen treatments can be considered an American Heart Association (AHA) Class II recommendation for treating chronic, refractory osteomyelitis. [3]
The relationship between the cells in our bones and oxygen is as powerful as the blood is to our heart. Oxygen is a vital necessity for our bones to operate and thrive properly. When undergoing hyperbaric treatment, the body receives elevated oxygen levels in the bone tissue. This experience, in turn, stimulates an increase in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, fostering the growth of healthy bone.
HBOT promotes collagen production, the fibrous material crucial for effectively uniting fractured bones. A 2007 study published in Connective Tissue Research showed that HBOT treatments stimulated the production of osteoblasts. [4] This research confirmed that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is efficacious in healing bone fractures and breaks.
Considerations and future implications
While the evidence supporting the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in bone repair is compelling, it’s crucial to acknowledge that individual responses may vary. Factors such as the type and severity of the injury, the patient’s overall health, and the timing of HBOT initiation can influence outcomes.
As research continues to evolve, hyperbaric oxygen therapy holds promise in bone repair and other musculoskeletal conditions. Collaborative efforts between clinicians, researchers, and policymakers will play a pivotal role in harnessing the full potential of HBOT for improved patient outcomes.
How we can help
At Hyperbaric Healing Treatment Center, we are here to support your healing journey. With our qualified team, highest safety standards, comfortable environment, and commitment to welcoming all patients, our goal is to prioritize you and ensure your needs are met throughout your experience at our centers in Orlando and New Smyrna Beach.
Our state-of-the-art Sechrist 3600 monoplane hyperbaric chambers are made of clear acrylic and equipped with streaming capabilities so you can relax and watch your favorite TV show during treatment.
Our team of hyperbaric specialists is ready to answer any questions you may have before undergoing treatment! We welcome you to contact us today.
Sources:
1: Cleveland Clinic | Osteoblasts and Osteoclasts
2: Cleveland Clinic | Osteomyelitis
3: National Library of Medicine | Hyperbaric Treatment of Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis
4: National Hyperbaric | HBOT and Broken Bones: How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps Heal Fractures
