What Researchers Did
The researchers conducted an economic analysis to determine the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of additional hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) compared to standard care (SC) for ischaemic diabetic foot ulcers over a 12-month period.
What They Found
No significant cost difference was found between HBOT+SC and SC alone, with a difference of €3,791. The cost per limb saved showed an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of €37,912 for HBOT+SC versus SC, and there was no significant difference in mean quality-adjusted life years (0.54 for HBOT+SC vs. 0.56 for SC).
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study suggests that adding hyperbaric oxygen therapy to standard care for diabetic foot ulcers may not offer significant cost-effectiveness or improved health status. Canadian patients with ischaemic diabetic foot ulcers might not see a substantial benefit in terms of limb salvage or quality of life from this additional treatment.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was conducted in a different healthcare system.
Study Limitations
The study's findings are limited by a 12-month time horizon and may not fully capture long-term outcomes or apply to all stages of diabetic foot ulcers.