What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an adjunctive treatment for necrotizing otitis externa (NOE).
What They Found
The review found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) shows promise for necrotizing otitis externa (NOE), with several included studies reporting complete resolution of infection and prevention of recurrence, particularly in refractory cases. While the current evidence is insufficient to establish HBOT as a standard treatment, its potential to improve clinical outcomes and reduce morbidity is considered significant.
Canadian Relevance
This systematic review has no direct Canadian connection or specific data related to Canadian patients or healthcare systems.
Study Limitations
A key limitation is the insufficient high-quality evidence, including a lack of randomised controlled trials, to definitively establish hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a standard treatment for necrotizing otitis externa.