What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review to summarize the evidence for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in treating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
What They Found
Two phase 2 clinical trials showed that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) improved steroid responsiveness and reduced the need for rescue therapy in hospitalized ulcerative colitis patients with moderate-to-severe flares. Additionally, outpatient cohort studies demonstrated improved healing for perianal fistulizing Crohn's disease and pouch complications, with HBOT being well tolerated and having low rates of adverse events.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients with inflammatory bowel disease, specifically those hospitalized with ulcerative colitis flares or experiencing Crohn's disease-related fistulae, might consider hyperbaric oxygen therapy as an adjunctive treatment option. This therapy could potentially improve treatment response and aid in healing, offering an additional approach to managing their condition.
Canadian Relevance
This study does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The authors noted that higher quality trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for inflammatory bowel diseases.