What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the outcomes of patients who received a specific treatment protocol for deep Achilles tendon wounds between 2004 and 2008.
What They Found
Of 80 patients seen, 13 received a protocol of topical hyperbaric oxygen, low-level laser therapy, and moisture-retentive dressings for deep Achilles tendon wounds. Complete re-epithelialization was achieved in 10 patients (77%) after a mean treatment time of 19 weeks, with 7 remaining ambulatory and ulcer-free at a mean follow-up of 3.3 years.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study suggests that a conservative management protocol involving topical hyperbaric oxygen and low-level laser therapy may be an effective option for Canadian patients with deep, recalcitrant Achilles tendon wounds. Such an approach could potentially reduce the need for surgical intervention or amputation, improving quality of life for those facing limited reconstructive options.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was conducted at a wound care center outside of Canada.
Study Limitations
The study's retrospective design and small sample size of 13 patients in the treatment group limit the generalizability of these findings.