Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery in Ischemic Soft Tissue Wounds

A Case Series

Richard Simman MD, FACS, FACCWS; Karen Bach, BS

Disclosures

ePlasty. 2022;22(e61) 

In This Article

Abstract and Introduction

Abstract

Background: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is an effective primary and adjunctive treatment for a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from carbon monoxide poisoning to nonhealing wounds. Although HBOT has been shown to improve morbidity and mortality rates when used as adjunctive therapy for compromised skin wounds, the strategy is still underutilized in practice, especially in the field of cosmetic and plastic reconstructive surgery.

Methods: Here we present 4 cases in which adjunctive HBOT was used to treat ischemic soft tissue wounds following facial fillers injectables, abdominoplasty, and compromise cutaneous flap after Mohs surgery reconstruction.

Results: In this report, we highlight the utility and implications of HBOT in the management of adverse outcomes following medical interventions.

Conclusions: The purpose of this case series is to add to the current existing literature examining the expanding role of HBOT as an adjunctive treatment for compromised skin and subcutaneous tissue wounds.

Introduction

Introduction of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) dates back to the late 1600s when Dr Nathaniel Henshaw built the first hyperbaric chamber called a "Domicilium."[1] Despite its demonstrated efficacy in wound therapy, HBOT is frequently underutilized.[2] Here we present 4 cases of compromised skin wounds secondary to filler injections, abdominoplasty, and Mohs surgery that were treated adjunctively with HBOT and demonstrated remarkable improvements in healing.

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