What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed the scientific evidence for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) as an adjunctive treatment for diabetic foot ulcers.
What They Found
Reviewed studies showed long-term ulcer healing rates of 77% with HBO versus 25% with standard treatment in non-randomized studies. Additionally, two double-blind RCTs reported 1-year follow-up data of 54% healing with HBO versus 25% with standard treatment, indicating consistent positive outcomes.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may serve as an adjunctive treatment for Canadian patients with diabetic foot ulcers that are difficult to heal. Patients experiencing persistent non-healing diabetic foot ulcers could discuss this option with their medical team.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The review identified a need for further high-quality studies to clarify health economics, patient selection criteria, and optimal treatment protocols for HBO.