Abstract

Objective: Foot ulcers are a frequently seen complication in patients with diabetes, which progress with a long period of hospitalization, a high risk of amputation and amputation stump problems. However, there are very few studies in literature on this subject. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is an adjuvant treatment method used in cases of diabetic foot ulcers and when wound healing is delayed.

Methods: The aim of this retrospective study was to present and discuss the results of 35 cases that underwent minor amputation because of diabetic foot ulcers and applied HBOT for delayed stump healing.

Results: The patients presented for HBOT at mean 33.1±42.55 days (range, 1-210 days) after amputation. Mean 29.77 (range, 5-45) sessions of HBOT were applied. Clinical healing was obtained without further amputation in 29 (82.86%) cases, further amputation was required in 4 (11.43%) cases and 2 (5.71%) patients terminated the therapy on their own request.

Conclusion: HBOT should be included within a multidisciplinary approach to be able to prevent healing problems following amputation in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.