What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a longitudinal observational cohort study to compare the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) with conventional therapies for diabetic foot ulcers and amputation prevention.
What They Found
Among 6,259 individuals with diabetic foot ulcers, those receiving hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) were less likely to experience wound healing (hazard ratio 0.68 [95% CI 0.63-0.73]). Furthermore, HBO recipients were more likely to undergo an amputation (hazard ratio 2.37 [95% CI 1.84-3.04]) compared to those receiving conventional therapies.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients with diabetic foot ulcers should discuss alternative conventional therapies with their healthcare providers, as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) may not improve wound healing. Given the study's findings, patients should be aware that HBO might increase the risk of amputation rather than prevent it.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As an observational cohort study, residual confounding despite statistical adjustments remains a potential limitation.