What Researchers Did
Researchers studied how a common continuous glucose monitor (Dexcom G6) and other glucose meters performed during a standard hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment in 26 healthy volunteers.
What They Found
The Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) showed a mean absolute relative difference of 15.96%, while a GO-based meter had an 8.52% difference. During hyperbaric oxygen exposure, CGM readings were significantly higher by 3.76 mg/dL, and GO-based meter readings were significantly lower by 10.38 mg/dL compared to normal air. Despite these statistical differences, the researchers concluded that these changes are unlikely to be clinically important.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients with diabetes-related ulcers undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, this study suggests that while continuous glucose monitors like the Dexcom G6 show statistical differences in readings during treatment, these changes are likely not significant enough to affect patient care. Patients should continue to monitor their blood sugar closely as advised by their healthcare team, but can be reassured that the devices remain generally reliable.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for patients with diabetes-related ulcers, which is a Health Canada-recognized indication for HBOT.
Study Limitations
A key limitation is that the study was conducted on healthy volunteers without diabetes, meaning the results may not perfectly reflect glucose monitoring in patients with diabetes.