Radiation Cystitis Treatment with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Radiation cystitis causes painful bladder symptoms that can persist long after cancer treatment ends. HBOT helps by restoring blood flow to the damaged bladder lining.
Understanding Radiation Cystitis
Radiation cystitis is an inflammatory condition of the bladder caused by pelvic radiation therapy. It commonly occurs in patients who have received radiation treatment for prostate, cervical, bladder, or rectal cancers.
Radiation damages the small blood vessels lining the bladder wall. This can lead to chronic inflammation, bleeding (hematuria), urinary frequency and urgency, pelvic pain, and in severe cases, significant blood loss requiring transfusion.
Symptoms may develop during radiation treatment or appear months to years later. When standard treatments such as medications and bladder instillations do not provide relief, HBOT offers an evidence-based option.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
HBOT promotes the growth of new blood vessels in the radiation-damaged bladder wall. The increased oxygen delivered during treatment supports tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and helps strengthen the fragile blood vessels that cause bleeding.
Studies referenced by the UHMS show that HBOT can significantly reduce or resolve hemorrhagic radiation cystitis in many patients, decreasing the frequency and severity of bleeding episodes and improving bladder function.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment sessions last approximately 90 minutes at pressure. A typical course involves 30 to 40 sessions. Your hyperbaric physician monitors your progress and coordinates with your urologist throughout treatment.
Many patients experience a gradual reduction in symptoms as the new blood vessel network develops over the course of therapy.
Insurance & Coverage
HBOT for radiation cystitis 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.