Mechanisms of Action
HBOT exerts its therapeutic effects through five distinct and complementary physiological mechanisms, each contributing to its broad clinical applicability.
Hyperoxygenation & Vasoconstriction
HBOT reverses tissue hypoxia while simultaneously inducing vasoconstriction, reducing edema without compromising oxygen delivery.
Neovascularization & Angiogenesis
Hyperoxia stimulates VEGF, PDGF, and FGF release, promoting capillary budding and granulation tissue formation in chronic wounds.
Antimicrobial Activity
High oxygen tensions enhance leukocyte oxidative killing capacity and are directly lethal to anaerobic bacteria such as Clostridium perfringens.
Gas Volume Reduction
According to Boyle's Law, increased pressure reduces the volume of gas bubbles in the blood — the primary mechanism for decompression sickness and arterial gas embolism.
Anti-Aging & Cellular Regeneration
HBOT activates telomerase, induces senolytic effects, mobilizes stem cells, and enhances antioxidant defense through the hyperoxic-hypoxic paradox.