HBOT for Compromised Skin Grafts & Flaps

UHMS-approved to salvage failing skin grafts and tissue flaps compromised by ischaemia or infection.

HBOT Hub — http://localhost:3003/conditions/skin-grafts · Printed October 11, 2026 · UHMS approved · Surgical adjunct

GRADE Evidence Rating

Overview

HBOT is UHMS-approved for compromised skin grafts and flaps — specifically those failing due to ischaemia, infection, or inadequate blood supply. Routine use for uncomplicated grafts is not indicated; HBOT is reserved for salvage of threatened tissue.

How HBOT Works

HBOT delivers dissolved oxygen directly to graft or flap tissue with marginal vascular supply, maintaining cellular viability during the critical window. HIF-1α-driven angiogenesis accelerates neovascularisation. Enhanced antimicrobial activity reduces infection-mediated graft failure.

Clinical Protocol

Early intensive course: 2–3 sessions per day for the first 48 hours of recognised compromise. Then daily sessions until clinical resolution — typically 10–30 total sessions.

Cautions & Considerations

Typical protocol	20–30 sessions at 2.0–2.4 ATA
Evidence level	Moderate — UHMS approved
FDA / regulatory status	FDA-approved indication

Reserved for compromised (threatened) grafts/flaps — not routine use.
Early initiation critical.
Coordinated with surgical team.

Key Research

Indexed studies

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Am I a candidate for HBOT for this condition given my medical history and current treatments?
What pressure (ATA) and session count would you recommend, and why?
Is treatment at this centre UHMS-accredited? What is the chamber type (monoplace or multiplace)?
What is the expected response rate and typical timeline for improvement?
What are the specific contraindications and side-effect risks in my case?
What is the expected cost and insurance coverage status?
What alternative or complementary treatments should I consider?
How will we measure whether treatment is working?