What Researchers Did
Researchers studied how hyperbaric oxygen therapy affected blood flow properties and clotting in 24 patients with severe diabetic angiopathy in their lower legs.
What They Found
The study found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy quickly helped normalize blood flow properties and overall blood clotting activity in these patients. However, the blood's natural anti-clotting system, especially fibrinolysis, did not activate enough. Therefore, the researchers suggested that patients also receive heparin, and fibrinolysin for those with tissue death.
Canadian Relevance
The study itself was not conducted by Canadian authors or in Canada. However, it covers diabetic angiopathy, which is related to diabetic foot ulcers, a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
This study had a small sample size of 24 patients and did not include a control group, which limits the generalizability of its findings.