What Researchers Did
Surgeons reviewed the scientific and clinical evidence for using HBOT to rescue failing skin grafts and flaps that are at risk of dying after reconstructive surgery.
What They Found
HBOT improves survival of compromised grafts and flaps through multiple mechanisms: reducing tissue oxygen starvation, improving collagen production, stimulating new blood vessel growth, and blocking ischemia-reperfusion injury. The review found evidence supporting benefit across multiple graft types and causes of compromise. Starting HBOT as soon as flap failure is identified was identified as critical to maximizing tissue survival.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadians undergoing reconstructive surgery after cancer, trauma, or burns, access to rapid HBOT when a flap or graft shows early signs of failure can mean the difference between saving and losing the tissue, avoiding a second surgery. Time to treatment is a key factor.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified. Compromised grafts and flaps are recognized HBOT indications internationally, though not currently listed as OHIP-covered in Ontario.
Study Limitations
This is a narrative review and the quality of individual studies supporting each flap type varies; not all recommendations are backed by randomized trial data.