Observation on the Efficacy of Hyperbaric Oxygen as Adjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer-Related Wounds: A Case Report

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is widely used as a therapeutic intervention for various types of wounds. Studies have shown that in addition to improving local oxygen supply to the wound site, HBOT can also influence cytokine activity, promote the survival of tissue mesh, and thereby facilitate wound healing. Moreover, HBOT inhibits the growth and reproduction of various pathogenic bacteria and enhances the phagocytic capacity of leukocytes, effectively preventing and controlling infection.

This case study involves a 61-year-old female diagnosed with invasive micropapillary carcinoma, who underwent a combination of treatments including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Nine years post-surgery, the patient experienced a recurrence of left breast cancer, accompanied by cancer wounds with exudate, edema, and ulceration in multiple areas such as the chest and back. Following comprehensive treatment consisting of anti-infective therapy, nutritional support, and edema management, along with three courses of adjuvant HBOT, the patient showed significant improvement in wound exudate and odor, resolution of lymphedema, and a reduction in wound volume, although the wound area did not show notable change.

This study implemented a comprehensive care plan for patients with malignant wounds, including measures such as wound debridement, anti-infection treatment, nutritional support, and HBOT. Following the integrated intervention, symptoms including wound exudate, odor, and lymphedema were alleviated, and wound volume was reduced, although no significant change was observed in wound area. The primary benefit of HBOT in malignant wound management lies in symptom control, while its effect on structural wound healing appears limited. Its specific role within multidisciplinary comprehensive care requires further investigation.