Effect of Topical Oxygen Therapy on Wound Healing in Diabetic Patients with Fournier's Gangrene

Abstract

Background: Diabetic patients presenting with Fournier gangrene have the highest mortality rate of all at-risk populations. 

Objective: To compare the efficacy of adjuvant topical oxygen therapy methods and conventional methods in the management of diabetic patients having Fournier's gangrene

Methodology: This was a comparative cross-sectional study, in Surgical unit 3, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, from 1^st January to 30^th June 2020. A total of 120 cases were included by systematic random sampling in the study, who were admitted either through OPD or the Emergency ward. In Group A, Topical Oxygen Therapy was given along with conventional methods. In Group B only conventional methods of wound care were applied. In group A, 100% oxygen was given in a bag with a routinely available oxygen cylinder exposing the whole affected part of the body or limb. Oxygen in the chamber was given for a maximum of one and a half hours twice daily in one sitting for 7 to 10 days. In the interval between cycles, the wound was covered with a soaked antiseptic dressing. After clinical improvement, the patient was discharged and called for follow-up in outdoor on weekly intervals initially and then fortnightly for up to 6 months.  

Results: Mean age was calculated as 36.45±10 and 35.38±9 years in Group-A and B respectively. Comparison of the efficacy of adjuvant topical oxygen therapy and conventional methods in the management of Fournier’s gangrene showed that 44 (73.3%) in Group-A and 29 (48.3%) in Group-B had efficacy (p=0.00).

Conclusion: Efficacy of adjuvant topical oxygen therapy is significantly higher when compared with conventional methods in the management of Fournier's gangrene.