Diabetic wounds and amputation prevention

Diabetic wounds are a major complication of diabetes and an excellent example of the type of wound that can be treated with hyperbaric oxygen. Many diabetics have impaired arterial circulation in their legs and feet and have difficulty with healing of these ulcers.

The elevation in tissue oxygenation which occurs during hyperbaric treatments causes significant changes in the wound repair process and promotes healing. When hyperbaric therapy is used in conjunction with standard wound care, improved outcomes have been demonstrated in the healing of difficult or limb threatening wounds.

There are several mechanisms for the enhancement of wound healing. These include hyperoxygenation, growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), decrease of edema and anti-bacterial effects.

Hyperoxygenation: The oxygen carrying capacity of the blood is significantly increased during HBOT, resulting in hyperoxygenation. This can restore a favorable environment to enhance wound healing.

Angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth): Non-healing wound can be due to many factors. For many patients, insufficient oxygen (hypoxia) is a significant part of the problem. Under the influence of HBO, new blood vessels bud into these hypoxic wounds. Angiogenesis is a fundamental requirement of healing and helps to avoid relapse over time.

Decrease edema: This is important because edema is a barrier to blood flow and healing. HBO can support edematous tissue while reducing excess fluid in the tissue.

Antibacterial effects: Oxygen behaves like an antibiotic by helping to contain the infection and allowing host defense mechanisms to fight the infection. It also helps your white blood cells to kill bacteria.

Over the past decade, the scientific evidence to support the use of hyperbaric oxygen for the treatment of diabetic wounds has increased significantly. Several research studies report a significant decrease in amputation rates when using hyperbaric oxygen, particularly in patients where vascular surgery is not an option. The improved wound healing ability that occurs with HBOT can stem and often reverse the damaging effects of poor circulation and help avoid amputation.