Back to All Indications
Chronic Indication • Barrie, Ontario
Early to Mid Stage Avascular Necrosis
Therapy to treat the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply, typically in the hip or other joints.
OHIP Coverage Status
Fully Covered by OHIP
Approved clinical protocol under UHMS & Ontario MOH guidelines • Patient self-referrals & physician referrals accepted

Early to mid-stage avascular necrosis joint preservation with hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Mechanism of Action
HBOT reduces bone marrow edema, decreases intraosseous pressure, and promotes angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) to restore blood supply to the dying bone.
Clinical Criteria (OHIP/UHMS)
- Early to mid-stage avascular necrosis (Ficat stages I-II)
- Pain and limited mobility in the affected joint
Treatment Protocol
2.0 - 2.4 ATA for 90 mins daily. 20-40 sessions.
Clinical Outcomes
Can halt the progression of the disease, relieve pain, and potentially avoid or delay the need for joint replacement surgery.
Key References & Evidence
Core Literature
- Camporesi EM, et al. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in femoral head necrosis. J Arthroplasty. 2010.
Referral & Consultation for Early to Mid Stage Avascular Necrosis
Fully covered by OHIP. Both physician referrals and patient self-referrals are accepted online or via fax at (705) 881-1119. For urgent or time-sensitive indications, please contact our Barrie clinic directly.