Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on peripheral vascular diseases

Introduction: Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a common and concerning symptom of several habits and illnesses and occurs most often in the lower extremities. PVD manifests itself by decreasing blood flow to tissues and therefore causing a lack of oxygenation, which, if not treated, can ultimately progress to ulcer formation. It is suggested that Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may lead to revascularization of the affected tissue. Aim: This study was performed in order to determine whether HBOT can aid wound and ulcer healing, caused by PVD. Material and methods: 20 participants (14 male, 6 female and age ranging from 45 to 89) have taken part in this case study. All of them suffered from PVD symptoms, such as developed ulcers, open wounds and pain. At 2.2 atmospheres (ATM) with 100% oxygen, the patients fulfilled 15 sessions, each lasting 60 minutes, where the decompression and compression phases lasted 10 minutes each. Treatment took place in the HBO Medical Center in Belgrade. Existing ulcers and their changes were classified. The subjective feeling of pain has been evaluated routinely. The data were analyzed with the Student t-test and ANOVA. Results: The outcome presented itself with a clear commenced healing of ulcers, wound and pain reduction. Additional improvements in elongation of intermittent claudication distance and peripheral sensation could also be observed. Ten patients partook in 5 or 10 further sessions, before noteworthy progress could be observed. Conclusion: According to this study, HBOT can facilitate the healing of existing ulcers and wounds caused by PVD, if used as a preventative method. However, a larger amount of participants, with control groups, should be used for a definitive conclusion.