ABSTRACT

Luhulla K, Martin Q, Bhoke A, Mahfudh S, Nkya A, Magohe A, Yonazi M, Buckey JC. Case Report: Complete Coverage Of Chronic Sickle Cell Leg Ulcer Using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Combined With Skin Grafting. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2025 Fourth Quarter; 52(4):571-575.

Introduction: A chronic leg ulcer is a serious complication of sickle cell anemia. The ulcers are treatment- resistant, recur frequently, and are associated with more severe disease. Treatment options for chronic leg ulcers in patients with sickle cell disease are limited. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy is a promising therapy for the management of sickle cell chronic leg ulcers as it relieves hypoxia, promotes angiogenesis, and reduces wound inflammation.

Case: A 35-year-old male with sickle cell anemia with a chronic leg ulcer for one year, despite regular wound dressing and antibiotics, was then successfully managed through HBO2 therapy followed by skin grafting.

Conclusion: HBO2 therapy was effective in this case and has also shown effectiveness as an adjunct therapy in the management of sickle cell-related chronic leg ulcers in other case reports. This supports the need for further research in this area.

Keywords: chronic leg ulcer; hyperbaric oxygen therapy; sickle cell anemia