What Researchers Did
Researchers randomized 240 patients with keloids to receive either hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in addition to surgery and radiotherapy, or surgery and radiotherapy alone.
What They Found
The recurrence rate was significantly lower in the HBOT group (5.97%) compared to the control group (14.15%, P<0.05). Patients receiving HBOT also reported greater satisfaction (P<0.05), and their recurrent scar tissue showed lower levels of inflammatory factors.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients undergoing keloid treatment, adding hyperbaric oxygen therapy to surgery and radiotherapy may significantly reduce the chance of recurrence. This could lead to better long-term outcomes and increased patient satisfaction with their scar management.
Canadian Relevance
This study was not conducted in Canada and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study's generalizability may be limited, and further research is needed to confirm long-term efficacy and optimal HBOT protocols.