Most of the information gathered on the effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on diabetic patients has been done through the treatment of diabetic non-healing ulcers. Findings are noted improvement of cardiovascular complications (Kakhnovski et al (1980 a,b,c), and later (1981) a reduction in insulin dosage by 4-38 units in 62.3% of 130 patients. The authors concluded that the hypoglycemic effect of HBOT is due to inhibition of the effect of antiinsulin hormones. There was also increased S-peptide secretion and tissue sensitivity to insulin due to correction of the acid-base balance.

The study also found that (1982) diet and insulin therapy combined with HBO was accompanied by a rapid stabilization (within 12 -18 days) of carbohydrate metabolism and good dynamics of all tests. The results indicated a significant improvement in tissue metabolism Ð both glycolysis and the tricarboxylic cycle.

In 1988 Epshtein et al treated 32 male patients with diabetes mellitus using HBO as a part of comprehensive management. They found that 10-14 sessions of HBO at 1.5-1.7 ATA for 40-50 min improved the carbohydrate metabolism, circulation in the lower extremities, and general condition of the patients. It was possible to reduce the dose of insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents in these patients. These authors recommended repetition of HBOT courses ever 6-8 months.

Apart from its effect on hyperglycemia, HBOT has been used as an adjunct to pancreatic islet transplantation in diabetes mellitus. Peritransplant treatment of diabetic recipients by daily HBOT sessions (2.4 ATA, 90 min) improves the outcome of the transplantation (Juange et al 2002).