What Researchers Did
The researchers conducted a review of published English literature from Medline and PubMed to evaluate the current evidence for hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjunctive treatment for necrotizing fasciitis.
What They Found
The review revealed inconsistent results regarding the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for necrotizing fasciitis. Some studies indicated that HBO could improve patient survival and decrease the number of debridements required, while others failed to show any beneficial effect. Consequently, the evidence was not robust enough to recommend widespread or routine use.
Canadian Relevance
The study authors are not identified as Canadian, nor was the study conducted in Canada. However, necrotizing fasciitis is a serious condition recognised by Health Canada, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a recognised medical treatment for certain indications in Canada.
Study Limitations
This study is a literature review, meaning it synthesizes existing research rather than providing new primary data, and thus reflects the inconsistencies present in the published literature.