Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) effective for treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 31, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may be considered as a complementary treatment for certain cases of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), particularly for hospitalized ulcerative colitis flares and Crohn's disease-related fistulae, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 1.

Key Points to Consider

  • The evidence for HBOT in IBD is growing, with several studies suggesting its potential benefits in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing 2, 1, 3.
  • However, the quality of the evidence is generally low, and more high-quality trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of HBOT in IBD 2, 1.
  • HBOT is not currently recommended as a standard treatment for IBD, and conventional treatments, including anti-inflammatory medications, immunomodulators, biologics, and surgical intervention, remain the primary approach to managing the disease.
  • The use of HBOT as a complementary therapy should be considered on a case-by-case basis, under the guidance of a gastroenterologist and a specialist in hyperbaric medicine.

Potential Benefits and Risks

  • The potential benefits of HBOT in IBD include reduced inflammation, promoted tissue healing, and improved symptoms 2, 1, 3.
  • However, HBOT is expensive, not widely available, and requires multiple sessions over weeks or months, which may be a significant burden for patients.
  • The risk of adverse events associated with HBOT is generally low, with most studies reporting minor adverse events 2, 1, 3.

Conclusion Not Applicable - Direct Answer Only

In summary, while the evidence for HBOT in IBD is promising, it is essential to approach its use with caution and consider it as a complementary therapy only in specific cases, under the guidance of a specialist 1.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.