What are the indications for referring a patient for hyperbaric oxygen therapy in cases of diabetic foot ulcers?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 22 August 2025Updated: 22 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Indications for referring a patient for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in diabetic foot ulcers: According to the NICE guideline NG19 on diabetic foot problems, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is not routinely recommended for treating diabetic foot ulcers and should only be considered as part of a clinical trial. Therefore, there are no standard indications for referral for HBOT outside of research settings in the management of diabetic foot ulcers.

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