What Researchers Did
This systematic review evaluated published clinical evidence on the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for wound healing and limb salvage by analyzing 64 original observational studies and randomized controlled trials.
What They Found
For patients with diabetic foot ulcers complicated by surgical infection, HBOT significantly reduced the chance of amputation (odds ratio 0.242) across 7 studies and improved the chance of healing (odds ratio 9.992) across 6 studies. HBOT was also associated with remission in approximately 85% of refractory lower extremity osteomyelitis cases.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be a valuable treatment option for Canadian patients with diabetic foot ulcers to prevent amputation and promote healing. It may also offer a path to remission for those suffering from refractory lower extremity osteomyelitis.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A randomized controlled trial is still needed to fully clarify the extent of HBOT's efficacy for refractory lower extremity osteomyelitis.