Osteoradionecrosis

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy aiding the treatment of osteoradionecrosis by enhancing bone healing and repairing radiation-induced bone necrosis.

Treatment of Osteoradionecrosis with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN), a severe complication that can arise from radiation therapy used to treat cancer, leads to the destruction of bone tissue due to impaired healing and oxygen deprivation. Patients suffering from ORN often experience chronic pain, infections, and bone necrosis, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) provides an effective treatment option by enhancing the healing process, reducing complications, and improving overall outcomes for individuals with radiation-induced bone damage.

HBOT works by delivering concentrated oxygen in a pressurized chamber, enabling much higher oxygen levels to reach the affected bone tissue. This increased oxygen promotes angiogenesis (the growth of new blood vessels), stimulates collagen production, and accelerates bone and tissue repair. For ORN, where oxygen deprivation limits healing, HBOT restores cellular function, controls infections, and reduces inflammation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that HBOT improves healing in ORN patients, reduces the need for surgical interventions, and helps prevent further deterioration of bone tissue.

At Hyperbaric Health Services, our specialists provide tailored HBOT treatments in a safe, clinical setting. Whether addressing osteoradionecrosis or other radiation-induced damage, HBOT can be a critical component in the recovery process, helping to restore health and improve the quality of life for patients dealing with ORN.

Supporting Evidence

1. Clinical Practice and Management of Osteoradionecrosis Using HBOT

Overview: This study reviews the effectiveness of HBOT in treating osteoradionecrosis, particularly in patients who have undergone radiation for head and neck cancers. It shows that HBOT can promote tissue healing and reduce the severity of bone necrosis.
Link: Oncology Article on HBOT for Osteoradionecrosis

2. Hyperbaric Oxygen for the Prevention of Osteoradionecrosis: HOPON Trial

Overview: The HOPON trial is a multicenter, randomized study aimed at evaluating HBOT's role in preventing osteoradionecrosis of the mandible following radiation therapy. The results provide insight into the prophylactic use of HBOT in high-risk patients.
Link: HOPON Trial on the Prevention of Osteoradionecrosis

3. Effectiveness of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Osteoradionecrosis of the Jaw

Overview: This systematic review summarizes clinical studies examining the use of HBOT for osteoradionecrosis of the jaw, focusing on improved outcomes in patients, including increased healing and reduced need for surgical interventions.
Link: Thieme Study on HBOT for Osteoradionecrosis

4. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Osteoradionecrosis: A Systematic Review

Overview: This systematic review evaluates the role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the management of osteoradionecrosis, focusing on the therapeutic outcomes and improvement in tissue oxygenation. It highlights the effectiveness of HBOT in promoting wound healing and reducing the severity of osteoradionecrosis in patients post-radiation therapy.
Link: PMC Article on HBOT for Osteoradionecrosis