What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review to summarize and evaluate existing evidence on the costs associated with hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) for acute and chronic wounds.
What They Found
The review identified one randomized clinical trial and three cohort studies that reported on both economic and clinical outcomes. Three of these studies indicated improved primary clinical outcomes such as wound healing, hospital stay, and complications in the HBOT group, but the effects of HBOT on costs were variable.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients considering hyperbaric oxygen treatment for wounds should be aware that there is currently limited direct evidence on its cost-effectiveness. While some clinical benefits were observed, the financial implications remain unclear, suggesting a need for more comprehensive economic evaluations.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The review found little direct evidence on the cost-effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen treatment for wounds, with only one of the included studies having good methodological quality.