Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) treatment for tissue damage

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) involves the systemic administration of pure gaseous oxygen under pressures greater than 1 atmosphere in a specialized chamber. Hyperbaric oxygen may also be administered in a multiplace chamber in which patients breathe 100% oxygen through a facemask or similar device with the surrounding air pressure increased to 2 to 3 times the atmospheric pressure.

Status: Decision completed

Why is HBOT being reviewed?

For HBO2 treatment (including wound care and treatment of Central Nervous Systems (CNS) conditions), important questions center on the effectiveness of treatment for some conditions, as well as the frequency, dose and duration treatment. The list of applications for HBO2 treatment has expanded beyond those approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or currently covered by the Center for Medicare Services (CMS).

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = Medium
  • Efficacy = High
  • Cost = High

Documentation

Assessment timeline

  • Draft key questions published: May 24, 2012
  • Public comment period: May 24 to June 11, 2012
  • Draft report published: January 4, 2013
  • Public comment period: January 7 to February 7, 2013
  • Final report published: February 18, 2013
  • HTCC public meeting: March 22, 2013