Gas Gangrene Treatment with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Gas gangrene is a rapidly progressing, life-threatening infection. HBOT directly targets the bacteria responsible by creating an environment they cannot survive in.
Understanding Gas Gangrene
Gas gangrene, also known as clostridial myonecrosis, is a severe and rapidly progressing infection caused by Clostridium bacteria. These bacteria produce powerful toxins that destroy muscle tissue and release gas, which can be felt as crackling under the skin (crepitus).
Gas gangrene typically develops after a traumatic wound, surgery, or injection that introduces the bacteria into deep tissue. The infection spreads rapidly — sometimes within hours — and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, a brownish or grayish discharge, and a foul odor from the wound.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
Clostridium bacteria are strictly anaerobic — they can only grow and produce toxins in the absence of oxygen. HBOT delivers high concentrations of oxygen directly to the infected tissue, creating an environment that halts bacterial growth and stops toxin production.
HBOT also enhances the immune system's ability to clear the infection and works synergistically with surgical debridement and antibiotics. The UHMS recognizes HBOT as an important adjunctive treatment for gas gangrene that can improve survival and reduce the extent of tissue loss.
What to Expect During Treatment
HBOT for gas gangrene is an emergency treatment. Sessions are started as soon as possible and may be given multiple times in the first 24 hours. Treatment is coordinated with surgical care and intravenous antibiotics.
Insurance & Coverage
HBOT for gas gangrene is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most major private insurance plans when medically necessary. Our team handles insurance verification and prior authorization so you can focus on healing.
Our team handles the paperwork so you can focus on healing. We will verify your benefits, obtain any required prior authorizations, and keep you informed every step of the way.