Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatment for Diabetic Foot Ulcers?

Introduction— Foot Ulcers and HBO Therapy Foot ulcers are one of most common and most devastating complications of diabetes Ulcers are commonly associated with morbidity and mortality without proper treatment HBO (hyperbaric oxygen) Therapy offers a new and effective way to treat these ulcers

HBO Therapy Goals To increase oxygen level absorbed by the blood to promote repairing of the body’s tissue Alters atmospheric conditions, while circulating 100% oxygen to the patient Goal is to ultimately reduce the number of amputations and to speed healing with complete healing for some foot ulcers.

Current Research in HBO Therapy Current studies lack substantial size and validity Studies also lack randomization or reliability Possible bias are found in all published studies Insurance does not provide payment for HBO Therapy for wound healing purposes

Future of HBO Therapy New studies are needed to prove the effectiveness of HBO Therapy for treatment of diabetic ulcers Insurance policies need also to include for payment of HBO Therapy Individual facilities need to become aware of the possibilities of HBO Therapy for their patients Public awareness is needed to support HBO Therapy