When a skin graft or a skin flap struggles to take, it is usually because the tissue is not receiving enough oxygen to heal. This is a recognised situation where hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT ) can help, used alongside, not instead of, standard medical care.
HBOT is an internationally recognised adjunctive treatment for skin grafts and flaps, and can be used as part of a broader recovery and rehabilitation programme. Under normal conditions, the body mostly relies on red blood cells to carry oxygen in the bloodstream. HBOT allows more oxygen to dissolve directly into the liquid part of the blood, known as plasma. This allows oxygen to reach tissues with low oxygen levels, including in areas that are injured, infected, or healing. HBOT helps support several of the body’s own repair processes: the formation of collagen, the growth of new blood vessels, and the ability of white blood cells to fight infection.
For a graft or flap that is at risk, that additional oxygen can support the healing environment while the surgical site recovers. Outcomes vary between individuals and depend on the underlying condition.
OxyGeneration in Galway accepts self-referrals and referrals from GPs/consultants. Sessions run at 2.0 ATA and last 80 to 90 minutes in total, monitored throughout by trained hyperbaric chamber operators. HBOT is generally well tolerated; the most common issue is ear discomfort during pressure changes, which is managed through briefing, equalisation exercises and a slow, controlled compression.
If you have had surgery involving a graft or flap and want to understand whether HBOT might support your recovery, speak to your healthcare provider or contact OxyGeneration in Galway on 091 394 444.
