Effects of hyperbaric oxygen on complications of soft tissue and bone healing after ankle arthrodesis

Abstract

Objective To explore the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on complications of soft tissue and bone healing after ankle arthrodesis. Methods Eighty-five late-stage ankle arthritis patients with complete medical follow-up were recruited as study subjects. According to Takakura-Tanaka ankle arthritis classification standards, there were 27 patients in stage 3a, 34 in stage 3b and 24 in stage 4. All the patients underwent ankle arthridesis with screw fixation by lateral malleolus osteotomy incision. In accordance with admission time, 39 patients in early stage were designated as the control group, that receuved routine surgery and post-surgical therapy. Forty-six patients in late stage were assigned as the HBO group, that was treated with HBO after surgery, in addition to the therapy received by the control group. Statistical analyses of complications of soft tissue and bone healing were made in the patients of the 2 groups, following surgery. Results There were significant differences in the complications of soft tissues (subcutaneous hematoma, incision infection, disruption and bone nonunion), when comparisons were made between the two groups. The HBO group was superior to those of the control group(P<0.05). Conclusions The incidence of soft tissue complications and delayed bone union, nonunion was quite high in ankle arthridesis with screw fixation by lateral malleolus osteotomy. HBO therapy after surgery was beneficial to the prevention of complications. Key words: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy; Arthrodesis; Complications; Bone healing