What Researchers Did
This systematic review summarized the known therapeutic effects and applications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) based on research available up to 1995.
What They Found
The review found that oxygen inhalation at pressures exceeding 0.2 MPa (2 ATA) has several positive effects, including increasing the bactericidal capacity of white blood cells, reducing tissue swelling, and stimulating new blood vessel growth. These properties were shown to help decrease illness, disability, and death when hyperbaric oxygen therapy was used alongside other treatments for conditions like diabetic foot ulcers and other forms of leg ischaemia.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients suffering from conditions like diabetic foot ulcers or severe leg ischaemia, this review suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be a valuable addition to their existing medical care. By improving tissue oxygenation and wound healing, HBOT may help reduce complications and improve overall recovery for these specific conditions.
Canadian Relevance
This study was not conducted in Canada nor by Canadian authors. However, it covers diabetic foot ulcers, which is a Health Canada-recognised indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a review published in 1995, this study reflects the understanding of hyperbaric oxygen therapy from that era and may not include more recent advancements or research.