Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Delayed Radiation Injury
Soft-tissue and bony injury that surfaces months to years after cancer radiotherapy (e.g. osteoradionecrosis, radiation cystitis, proctitis). A UHMS-approved indication.
Typical Protocol
How HBOT Helps
HBOT stimulates angiogenesis in radiation-damaged, poorly-vascularized tissue, improving oxygen delivery and supporting healing or surgical recovery in the irradiated field.
What to Know
Often used around dental/surgical procedures in irradiated tissue (the Marx protocol) and for refractory radiation cystitis or proctitis.
Review the primary literature on PubMed →Centers Treating Delayed Radiation Injury
205 centers in our directory report treating this condition. 60 are UHMS-accredited (shown first).
Showing 60 of 205. Browse all by location.
Before You Book — What to Verify
- Chamber type: approved indications need a clinical hard-shell chamber (2.0–3.0 ATA), not a mild soft-shell unit.
- Whether a hyperbaric-trained physician supervises treatment.
- Insurance coverage and pre-authorization for this indication.
- UHMS accreditation status of the facility.
- That the recommended pressure and session count match the protocol above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HBOT FDA/UHMS-approved for Radiation injury?
Yes. Delayed Radiation Injury is one of the indications approved by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for it is generally eligible for insurance coverage when criteria are met.
What pressure and how many sessions does Radiation injury typically need?
Standard-of-care protocols typically run at 2.0–2.4 ATA for about 30–40 sessions. Your physician sets the exact protocol based on your case.
How does hyperbaric oxygen help with Radiation injury?
HBOT stimulates angiogenesis in radiation-damaged, poorly-vascularized tissue, improving oxygen delivery and supporting healing or surgical recovery in the irradiated field.
How many directory centers list Radiation injury?
205 centers in our directory report treating Radiation injury, of which 60 are UHMS-accredited. Always confirm directly with the center.
Other Conditions
Educational information, not medical advice. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy decisions — especially for emergencies and the conditions above — must be made with a qualified physician. Approved-indication status follows the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society Committee Report; protocols are typical ranges, not prescriptions.