What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed 8 patients with pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis who received hyperbaric oxygen treatment at Prince Henry Hospital between 1980 and 1986, with follow-up in 1990.
What They Found
All 11 hyperbaric oxygen treatment courses led to significant symptomatic improvement. However, 7 recurrences occurred, while 4 patients achieved long-term cures, remaining asymptomatic and cyst-free for 4 to 9 years. Cyst resolution was documented in 2 of the 4 cured patients and failed in 6 of the 7 recurrence cases.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was conducted in Australia and New Zealand.
Study Limitations
The study's primary limitation is its small sample size of 8 patients and its retrospective, observational design.