Wound-Management of Complex Wounds

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) have had inconsistent changes in pulmonary mechanics as reported in the literature. Additionally, there are no studies thus far comparing former smokers versus lifetime nonsmokers undergoing HBOT to determine whether it contributes to decrements in lung function. The objective of this study is to examine physiological changes in lung function of smokers versus nonsmokers with chronic wounds undergoing HBOT. METHOD: Standard pulmonary spirometric parameters were collected on patients before and after their HBOT courses, which ranged from 20–60 treatments per patient. Former smokers were considered if they had a minimum of 10 pack-year smoking history. Patients were treated for the following wound conditions: Diabetic foot ulcer, refractory osteomyelitis and compromised graft/flap. Standard wound care practices were provided by a wound/HBOT specialist throughout the study period. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients, 24 males and 10 females, with an average age of 60, were enrolled. Sixteen were former smokers and 18 were lifetime nonsmokers. Results were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney test for statistical analysis. P-values were not significant in both groups. CONCLUSION: There is no statistical significant change in any of the lung mechanics of former smokers and lifetime nonsmokers patients undergoing long-term HBOT for treatment of chronic wounds.