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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

necrotizing-fasciitis-bacteria

Necrotizing Infections

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare bacterial infection that spreads quickly in the body and can cause death.

The bacteria most commonly enter the body through a break in the skin. Different breaks in the skin can include:

  • Cuts and scrapes

  • Burns

  • Insect bites

  • Puncture wounds (including those due to intravenous [IV] drug use)

  • Surgical wounds

However, people can also get necrotizing fasciitis after blunt trauma (an injury that does not break the skin).

Studies on Necrotizing Infection and HBOT

The effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the clinical outcomes of necrotizing soft tissue infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Huang, C., Zhong, Y., Yue, C. et al. The effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the clinical outcomes of necrotizing soft tissue infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Emerg Surg 18, 23 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13017-023-00490-y

Abstract

Background: To determine the efcacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) in the treatment of necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI), we conducted a meta-analysis of the available evidence.

Conclusion: The current evidence suggests that the use of HBO in the treatment of NSTI can signifcantly reduce the mortality rates and the incidence rates of complications. However, due to the retrospective nature of the studies, the evidence is weak, and further research is needed to establish its efcacy. It is also important to note that HBO is not available in all hospitals, and its use should be carefully considered based on the patient’s individual circumstances. Additionally, it is still worthwhile to stress the signifcance of promptly evaluating surgical risks to prevent missing the optimal treatment time.

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