Problem Wounds

Problem wounds are defined as wounds that fail to show improvement in four weeks or complete healing in eight weeks despite standard medical and surgical intervention. These may include diabetic foot ulcers, compromised amputation sites, vascular insufficiency ulcers, and non-healing traumatic wounds. All of these wounds have the underlying problems of tissue hypoxia.

HBO can be an adjunctive therapy in treatment of hypoxic wounds by producing effects of hyperoxygenation, angiogenesis and white blood cell bacterial killing. Recent literature has shown reduction in major amputation for patients with diabetic foot ulcers. HBO for problem wounds should be undertaken with the clear understanding that it must be part of a vigorous and coordinated multidisciplinary team approach to wound care.