What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to compare different gas-based therapies for healing chronic wounds.
What They Found
This review included 27 randomized controlled trials with 1673 participants. Overall, gas therapies significantly increased complete wound healing compared to standard care, with a risk ratio of 2.17 (95% CI 1.61-2.94). However, a network analysis ranked standard care highest for effectiveness (93.9%), with ozone therapy and topical oxygen ranking next, and HBOT ranking mid-range.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This research suggests that various gas therapies, including HBOT, show potential for improving chronic wound healing. Canadian patients with chronic wounds might consider discussing these options with their healthcare providers to determine the most suitable treatment approach.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers chronic wounds, which include diabetic foot ulcers, a condition recognized by Health Canada for HBOT treatment.
Study Limitations
The study's findings were limited by substantial differences between studies, likely small-study effects, and an overall moderate certainty of evidence.