What Researchers Did
Researchers measured oxidative stress markers (substances that indicate cellular damage) and blood counts in 14 male diabetic foot patients before and after a full course of 30 HBOT sessions at 2.5 ATA for 60 minutes per day, 5 days per week.
What They Found
HBOT did not significantly change oxidative stress markers during the treatment course (p > 0.05 for all redox parameters). Diabetic patients had higher lipid peroxidation (TBARS) in blood plasma than healthy controls both before and after treatment. HBOT did increase the percentage of monocytes and affected platelet volume in the blood.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study reassures that a full course of HBOT for diabetic foot ulcers does not worsen the already-elevated oxidative stress seen in diabetic patients. For Canadians with diabetic foot wounds at risk of amputation, HBOT remains a valid treatment option and does not appear to cause additional oxidative damage.
Canadian Relevance
Diabetic foot ulcers are an OHIP-covered indication for HBOT in Ontario. Canadians with diabetes-related foot wounds that are non-healing despite standard care may qualify for publicly funded HBOT treatment.
Study Limitations
The study included only 14 male patients and lacked randomization, limiting the ability to draw firm conclusions about HBOT's effects on oxidative stress in a broader diabetic population.