Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy after adjuvant radiotherapy reduces fibrosis in breast cancer patients: JAMA

The trial found that while HBOT did not significantly reduce pain levels overall, it was effective in reducing fibrosis. Among women who completed HBOT, there was a significant reduction in both pain and fibrosis. Only 25% of women who were offered HBOT opted to undergo the treatment, with the main reason for refusal being mentioned as the high intensity of the therapy.

The outcomes suggest that while HBOT may not be universally effective in alleviating pain associated with late local toxic effects after breast irradiation, but, it shows promise in reducing fibrosis. The relatively low acceptance rate among participants indicates a need for further comprehensive investigation into the feasibility and acceptability of HBOT.

Reference:

Mink van der Molen, D. R., Batenburg, M. C. T., Maarse, W., van den Bongard, D. H. J. G., Doeksen, A., de Lange, M. Y., van der Pol, C. C., Evers, D. J., Lansdorp, C. A., van der Laan, J., van de Ven, P. M., van der Leij, F., & Verkooijen, H. M. (2024). Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Late Local Toxic Effects in Patients With Irradiated Breast Cancer. In JAMA Oncology. American Medical Association (AMA). https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoncol.2023.6776