The HCA Virginia Wound Healing Centers were the first comprehensive Wound Healing Centers in Central Virginia and the first to offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), one of the most advanced treatment options available for healing wounds. This treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a sealed environment that has been pressurized to help push oxygen into the blood plasma. HBOT stimulates the growth of blood vessels in damaged tissues and is effective in fighting some types of infection.

What to Expect from HBOT

The Wound Healing Center staff will provide instructions and answer your questions before your first treatment. You will need to inform the staff about any medications you are taking.

Unless you have another medical condition, HBOT is an outpatient treatment that usually lasts about two hours. The number of treatments will depend on your diagnosis and care plan.

Most people experience no pain or discomfort during or after treatment. You may feel fullness in your ears similar to what you experience during airplane flight. Your doctor will discuss other possible side effects of HBOT.

All garments must be removed prior to treatment. A comfortable 100% cotton garment will be provided for you to wear during treatment. You will be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids and prostheses. Alochol-based and petroleum-based skin care products should not be used prior to HBOT. Please avoid makeup, hair grooming products, nail polish, perfume, colgne, deodorant, shaving products, lotions, creams and powder.

If you have cold or flu symptoms, it may be necessary to postpone your treatment.

You will need to be evaluated by one of our doctors in the Wound Healing Center prior to being scheduled for HBOT.

For More Information

The Wound Healing Center at Retreat Doctors' Hospital

2621 Grove Avenue
Richmond, VA 23220
The Wound Healing Center is located on the 2nd floor of the hospital.
Contact us at 804.254.5403.

The Wound Healing Center at Chippenham Hospital

7101 Jahnke Road
Richmond, VA 23225
The Wound Healing Center is located on the opposite end of the hospital from Jahnke Road, near the Tucker Pavilion entrance.
Contact us at 804.327.4045.

Learn more about HBOT at our online Health Library