Dr. Paul Harch, M.D. Discusses Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) on NOLA Now with Katie Murphy

June 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA — In a recent episode of NOLA Now, internationally recognized Hyperbaric Medicine specialist Dr. Paul Harch, M.D. joined Katie Murphy, Media Executive with Fox 8 New Orleans, for an in-depth discussion about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), its medical applications, and its growing role in modern healthcare.

The interview explored FDA indications, how the FDA indications were derived, and off-label use of FDA-approved drugs and devices, especially HBOT in traumatic brain injury (TBI).

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that delivers increased pressure and oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure inside a specialized chamber. This process allows significantly higher concentrations of oxygen to dissolve into the bloodstream and tissues, supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

According to Dr. Harch, oxygen is not merely a life-sustaining gas—it also functions as a powerful biological signaling molecule that can stimulate repair processes throughout the body.

How HBOT Supports Healing

• Increases oxygen delivery to damaged tissues
• Reduces inflammation
• Stimulates blood vessel growth
• Supports neurological recovery
• Enhances wound healing
• Improves cellular metabolism and function
• Activates dormant healing pathways

These effects have made HBOT an area of growing interest among physicians, researchers, and patients seeking additional treatment options for complex health conditions.

Dr. Paul Harch’s Contributions to Hyperbaric Medicine

Dr. Paul Harch is widely recognized as one of the pioneers in the field of Hyperbaric Medicine. Throughout his career, he has conducted extensive research and treated thousands of patients using personalized HBOT treatment regimens designed to support healing and recovery.

His work has contributed significantly to the understanding of how pressure and oxygen under pressure can influence cellular function, neuroplasticity, and tissue repair.

Growing Interest in HBOT Research

As scientific understanding continues to evolve, researchers are investigating the potential benefits of HBOT in a variety of clinical settings. Studies have examined its use for wound care, neurological recovery, traumatic injuries, and other conditions where tissue oxygenation and healing play important roles.

While research is ongoing, the increasing interest in hyperbaric medicine reflects a broader effort within healthcare to explore therapies that leverage the body’s natural repair mechanisms.

Key Takeaways from the NOLA Now Interview

• The FDA has “approved” HBOT for a limited number of indications.
• Any FDA “approved” drug or device can be used by a licensed physician in their practice to treat patients.
• There are additional applications of HBOT, termed off-FDA label, for which substantial research is showing effectiveness of HBOT.
• One of these off-label uses is traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Multiple studies have shown effectiveness of HBOT in relieving the chronic symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury/concussion.
• Hyperbaric medicine continues to gain attention from researchers and clinicians.
• Dr. Harch remains a leading voice in advancing the understanding of HBOT.
• Future research may expand the role of HBOT across multiple areas of healthcare.

FDA-Approved Conditions for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

1. Air or Gas Embolism
   • Air bubbles in the bloodstream that can block blood flow and damage organs.
2. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
   • Including cases complicated by smoke inhalation or cyanide exposure.
3. Clostridial Myositis and Myonecrosis (Gas Gangrene)
   • Severe bacterial infections that rapidly destroy muscle and tissue.
4. Crush Injury, Compartment Syndrome, and Other Acute Traumatic Ischemias
   • Serious injuries where blood flow to tissues is compromised.
5. Decompression Sickness (“The Bends”)
   • Commonly associated with scuba diving accidents.
6. Arterial Insufficiencies
   • Including certain non-healing wounds caused by inadequate blood flow.
7. Severe Anemia
   • When blood transfusion is impossible or insufficient.
8. Intracranial Abscess
   • Deep infections within the brain.
9. Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections
   • Often called “flesh-eating” bacterial infections.
10. Refractory Osteomyelitis
    • Chronic bone infections that fail standard treatment.
11. Delayed Radiation Injury
    • Including radiation damage to soft tissue and bone following cancer treatment.
12. Compromised Skin Grafts and Flaps
    • To help preserve threatened tissue grafts and reconstructive flaps.
13. Thermal Burns
    • Selected severe burn injuries where HBOT may improve healing outcomes.

Additional Conditions Commonly Treated with HBOT

Dr. Paul Harch and other hyperbaric physicians often discuss research involving HBOT for conditions that are not currently FDA-approved indications, including:

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Stroke
• Post-Concussion Syndrome
• Long COVID
• PTSD
• Cerebral Palsy

These uses may be considered investigational, off-label, or supported by varying levels of clinical evidence.
Please see the disclaimer at the end of the video.

View the complete NOLA Now interview featuring Dr. Paul Harch, M.D. and Katie Murphy to learn more about the science, history, and future of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.