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Orthopedic Services
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1509 Wilson Terrace
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 409-8000






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What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy and how does it work? My husband is at a large teaching hospital where they have all the latest technology. They are proposing this treatment for necrotizing fasciitis. He is in danger of losing his leg from a strep and staph infection without it.

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is an infection of the soft tissues -- primarily the fascia or connective tissue. It's a rare condition but one that can have very serious consequences. Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is caused by a bacteria or fungus -- there are over 25 different types known to cause NF. You have mentioned two of the more common names staphylococcus and streptococcus. Many times there is more than one organism present contributing to the problem. Treatment by a multidisciplinary team is required for successful outcomes. Antibiotics are used to inactivate all organisms contributing to the problem and prevent further spread of bacteria. The bacteria produce several toxins, causing severe breakdown of skin, muscles, soft tissues and organs. Blood vessels supplying oxygen and important nutrients to the cells can be destroyed in the process. That's where oxygen therapy comes in. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), also known as hyperbaric medicine is the use of oxygen at a level higher than atmospheric pressure. The patient is placed in a hyperbaric chamber. There are different designs but it basically looks like a rubber, plastic, metal or glass tube with air locks to maintain the delivery of 100 per cent oxygen. Some facilities have a room-size chamber or large enough unit to hold several people at one time. There is an intercom system so the patient can communicate with others. Increasing oxygen to the body helps the immune system make good use of the antibiotics and improve tissue repair. There are some early studies that suggest hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduces the risk of amputation. It may even prevent the most serious complication of necrotizing fasciitis (death). The use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for necrotizing fasciitis is still under investigation since some studies have not found it to be beneficial. It will not harm the patient but it may not help. Whenever necrotizing fasciitis is the problem, a wide range of treatment approaches are required. Antibiotics, surgery, and supportive therapy such as oxygen therapy and good nutrition are essential to preventing loss of limb and ensuring full recovery.

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