Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine Patient

In 2022, Patricia Murray was diagnosed with tongue cancer, which led to radiation treatment. Months later, after a routine root canal procedure, she discovered a wound in her mouth with exposed bone. A passionate music teacher, Patricia found herself unable to sing in addition to difficulties talking and eating.

Patricia was referred to the Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine by her head and neck cancer specialist. Here, it was discovered that she had osteoradionecrosis of the jaw, a condition in which bone has died due to prior radiation exposure. This paired with the non-healing wound in her mouth was the source of her physical and emotional pain.

Patricia then began hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy to treat her condition. This safe, noninvasive therapy uses 100% pure oxygen to enhance the body’s ability to heal. This treatment was used as a part of a comprehensive plan of care designed by the center staff.

After 30 HBO treatments, her mouth was showing great progress; however, Dr. Hahm, Medical Director of the Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine, suggested an extension of treatments to close the wound. Because Patricia was returning to teaching, this caused scheduling conflicts, but the team was able to work around Patricia’s work schedule to continue her daily treatment.

“They’re not just medical professionals,” explains Patricia. “They are so much more—accommodating, helpful and empathetic. They were my lifeline during this challenging time.”

Patricia completed her treatment feeling restored and blessed to have received so much kindness and compassion. She is now back to doing all the things she was unable to do before coming to the center, including, most importantly, teaching music.