1. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Treatment for Diabetic Foot Ulcers?

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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