FAQ-4

4) How is HBOT administered?

A patient receiving HBOT at the Hyperbaric Medical Center of New Mexico will spend about an hour (per dive) in either a Monoplace (single patient) chamber, or a Multi-place chamber which can accommodate up to 12 adults. The multiplace chamber contains compressed air with the oxygen delivered through hood once the prescribed chamber pressure is reached.

Oxygen is a prescription drug, so HBOT must be prescribed. "Diving" is not painful or frightening, but it is important for the patient to pay attention to how they feel. The sensation is the same as when an airplane is descending and one must either swallow water or clear their ears by blowing against a pinched nose and swallowing. This will prevent barotrauma, the most frequent complication (fewer than 5% report slight discomfort). While there are risks with any treatment (even taking an aspirin has risks) the risks of HBOT are minimal, and there is no recovery period - normal activity can resume immediately after a treatment.

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