What Researchers Did
Researchers studied 98 patients with diabetes mellitus who had severe infections like gangrene or abscesses, treating them with hyperbaric oxygen therapy in addition to their standard antidiabetic care.
What They Found
The study found that nearly all 98 diabetic patients experienced an improved general condition. They also observed faster wound healing, better control of their diabetes, and the resolution of ketoacidosis. These positive changes were supported by improvements in both laboratory and clinical measures.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients with diabetes facing severe infections such as gangrene or non-healing wounds, this study suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be a beneficial addition to their treatment plan. It indicates potential for faster wound healing and better overall diabetes management when combined with standard care.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers a Health Canada-recognised indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy, specifically severe diabetic wounds like gangrene.
Study Limitations
A limitation of this older study is the lack of specific details regarding the hyperbaric oxygen therapy protocol and the absence of a control group for comparison.