Acute Thermal Burns Treatment with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Serious burn injuries damage more tissue than what is immediately visible. HBOT helps preserve tissue in the "zone of stasis" — the area around the burn at risk of dying — potentially reducing the extent of injury.
Understanding Acute Thermal Burns
Acute thermal burns are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue caused by contact with heat sources such as fire, steam, hot liquids, or hot surfaces. Burns are classified by depth: first-degree (superficial), second-degree (partial-thickness), and third-degree (full-thickness).
After a serious burn, the injury extends beyond the visible damage. Surrounding the central burn area (zone of coagulation) is a region called the "zone of stasis" — tissue that is injured but not yet dead. Without adequate oxygen and blood flow, this zone can progress to cell death over the following 24 to 48 hours, expanding the total area of the burn.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
HBOT delivers high concentrations of oxygen to the burn area, including the critical zone of stasis. This oxygen supply supports cell survival in tissue that would otherwise die from oxygen deprivation. HBOT also reduces the severe swelling (edema) that accompanies burns, which can further compromise blood flow to damaged tissue.
Additional benefits recognized by the UHMS include enhanced white blood cell function to fight infection in the burn wound, support for collagen production and tissue repair, and potential reduction in the overall extent of the burn injury.
What to Expect During Treatment
HBOT for burn injuries is initiated as soon as medically appropriate. Early treatment offers the greatest opportunity to preserve tissue in the zone of stasis. Sessions last approximately 90 minutes, and the number of treatments depends on the severity and extent of the burn.
Insurance & Coverage
HBOT for acute thermal burns 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.