The Effect Of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Lipid Profile, Blood Glucose, Hba1c Levels qnd Wound Healing in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patients

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot ulcers are associated with impaired wound healing, poor glycemic control, dyslipidemia, and reduced functional capacity. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used as an adjunctive treatment; however, evidence regarding its dose–response effects on systemic metabolic and functional outcomes remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the dose–response effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on glycemic control, lipid metabolism, and functional capacity in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest study was conducted involving 48 patients with diabetic foot ulcers who underwent hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Participants were allocated into two groups: a 5-session group and a 10-session group. Glycemic parameters (fasting glucose and HbA1c), lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, and LDL), and functional capacity assessed using the Push Score were measured before and after therapy. Statistical analyses were performed using parametric or non-parametric tests based on data distribution, with between-group comparisons conducted to assess dose–response effects. Results: Both treatment groups showed significant improvements in all evaluated parameters (p < 0.001). However, the 10-session group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in fasting glucose and HbA1c, more favorable changes in lipid profile, and superior improvements in functional capacity compared with the 5-session group (p < 0.001 for all between-group comparisons), indicating a clear dose–response relationship. Conclusion: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy provides significant metabolic and functional benefits in patients with diabetic foot ulcers, with greater therapeutic effects observed following longer treatment duration. These findings support the use of extended hyperbaric oxygen therapy protocols to optimize systemic and functional outcomes in diabetic foot ulcer management.