What Researchers Did
Researchers investigated hemocarboperfusion in 12 patients and hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) in 20 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic symptoms.
What They Found
The study reported positive results for both hemocarboperfusion and hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic symptoms. Hemocarboperfusion was recommended for severe, rapidly progressive rheumatoid arthritis with high rheumatoid factor titers, while HBO was found appropriate for systemic symptoms like ischaemic polyneuropathy, digital arteritis, trophic ulcers, and Raynaud's syndrome.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Given the age of this study (1986), these findings on hemocarboperfusion and hyperbaric oxygenation for rheumatoid arthritis are not reflective of current standard treatment guidelines for Canadian patients. Modern therapeutic approaches for rheumatoid arthritis have significantly evolved, offering more evidence-based and targeted treatments.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection or specific relevance to the Canadian healthcare context.
Study Limitations
This study is limited by its small sample sizes (12 and 20 patients), lack of a control group, and its age, which predates significant advancements in rheumatoid arthritis treatment.