What Researchers Did
The researchers conducted a review of existing literature on hyperbaric oxygen therapy for thermal burn injuries, from its first use in 1965 to the present day.
What They Found
Out of 47 publications reviewed (32 animal experiments, four human volunteer trials, and 11 clinical studies), 43 demonstrated positive effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for burns. These benefits included less swelling (edema), improved healing, reduced infection, and decreased post-burn pain. The therapy also helped prevent burns from getting worse by preserving blood flow and keeping cells alive, though the specific treatment protocols varied widely.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
While hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not yet a standard treatment for burns, this review suggests it could offer significant benefits for Canadian patients with thermal injuries. It may help reduce pain, speed up healing, and prevent complications like infection and further tissue damage. Patients should discuss all treatment options, including potential adjunctive therapies, with their burn care team.
Canadian Relevance
Burns are not a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. No direct Canadian connection (authors or study location) was identified.
Study Limitations
The study is a review of existing literature, and the included studies showed considerable variation in hyperbaric oxygen treatment protocols, making direct comparisons and definitive conclusions challenging.