The topical hyperbaric oxygen therapy debate.

Oxygen Therapy Debate Dear Editor, In response to the article, “Topical Hyperbaric Oxygen and Electrical Stimulation: Exploring Potential Synergy” (Ostomy/Wound Management. 2002;48(11):42-50), by definition, hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves the entire body, increased atmospheric pressure, and the patient breathing 100% oxygen. The increased oxygen pressure and oxygen concentration help wound healing. The treatment provides one or more of the following effects: • Increased oxygen delivery to injured tissues • Infection control • Blood vessel formation (neovascularization) • Preservation of damaged tissues • Elimination of toxic gasses. It is important to note that the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy result from a systemic oxygenenriched blood stream and not from the oxygen’s direct contact topically. The patients described in the article were at normal atmospheric pressure, 14.7 psi at sea level (normobaric conditions), breathing only 20% oxygen. The application of topical oxygen is exactly that. Limb chambers are occasionally used for wound healing and these are not hyperbaric either. Kathryn Burghart, AHCRN Scottsdale, Ariz.