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Covered by Medicare and private insurance

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for osteoradionecrosis

Radiation therapy can permanently damage the small blood vessels in bone, most often in the jaw after head and neck cancer treatment. Exposed or breaking-down bone in a radiated area heals poorly on its own. Hyperbaric oxygen helps irradiated tissue grow new blood vessels so it can heal and better tolerate surgery.

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Am I a candidate?

Hyperbaric oxygen is commonly used for osteoradionecrosis in the following situations. Our team confirms candidacy during your evaluation.

  • You received radiation therapy to the area, most often the head and neck.
  • You have exposed or breaking-down bone in the radiated area, or a diagnosis of osteoradionecrosis on imaging.
  • Or: you need a tooth extraction or other surgery in a previously irradiated jaw, and your dentist or surgeon wants to lower the risk of osteoradionecrosis.

Your radiation oncology summary (dose and dates) and any dental or oral surgery notes help us plan treatment.

What treatment involves

90 minat pressure, ~2 hours total

Resting in a clear chamber, breathing 100% oxygen; plan on about two hours per visit.

5 daysper week

Consecutive weekdays at the location closest to you.

30–40sessions, typically

Often split into sessions before and after a planned procedure.

We coordinate the timing of treatment with your oral surgeon, dentist or ENT, and your radiation oncologist, so that hyperbaric sessions are completed around any planned procedure.

The evidence

Osteoradionecrosis is an approved indication of the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society and is covered under Medicare’s national coverage determination for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Questions patients ask about osteoradionecrosis

I need a tooth pulled and had radiation years ago. Should I come in first?

Ask your dentist or oral surgeon. Radiation damage to bone is permanent, so the risk does not go away with time. When an extraction is planned in an irradiated jaw, hyperbaric oxygen before and after the procedure is a common way to lower the risk.

Is it safe after cancer treatment?

Your provider reviews your full cancer history at the evaluation. Hyperbaric oxygen is routinely used in people who have completed radiation therapy, and we coordinate with your oncology team.

What will it cost me?

For covered indications, your cost is your plan's usual copay or coinsurance. We verify benefits and obtain prior authorization before you start, and tell you in writing what to expect.