Radiation damage occurs in every tissue and organ radiated, to varying degrees. After radiation a small percentage of patients develop soft tissue or bone necrosis; progressive, disabling, painful, and potentially fatal due to tissue breakdown and loss of protective barriers. For soft tissue injuries, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help resolve radiation-induced tissue damage, reduce pain, and improve wound healing. In bony radiation injury (osteoradionecrosis), it promotes bone regeneration, reduces inflammation, and supports tissue repair by increasing oxygen concentration in poorly perfused bone tissue. HBOT successfully treats radiation induced haematuria and cystitis.
