What Researchers Did
Kindwall EP, Gottlieb LJ, and Larson DL conducted a review of the literature concerning the applications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in plastic surgery.
What They Found
Researchers found that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy stimulates leukocyte microbial killing, enhances fibroblast replication, and increases collagen formation and neovascularization in ischemic tissue. It was reported to improve outcomes in conditions like refractory osteomyelitis, necrotizing fasciitis, crush injuries, and compartment syndrome, and to facilitate more complete and rapid take of skin grafts and flaps. For burn injuries, HBO therapy was associated with shorter hospital stays, fewer surgeries, and reduced fluid replacement.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients undergoing plastic surgery procedures for conditions such as chronic wounds, severe infections, or compromised tissue may potentially benefit from adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This treatment could lead to improved healing, reduced complications, and potentially shorter recovery times for specific indications.
Canadian Relevance
This review article does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a review article, this study synthesizes existing literature and does not present new primary data or specific quantitative outcomes from a controlled trial.