Role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in oral submucous fibrosis: a randomized comparative study from India

BACKGROUND: To assess the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an adjunct to standard treatment in early-stage oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), focusing on mouth opening, burning sensation, pain, and systemic inflammation. METHODS: A randomized comparative study was conducted on early-stage OSMF patients divided into two groups. Group 1 received HBOT along with intralesional triamcinolone, hyaluronidase, and oral antioxidants. Group 2 received only the standard intralesional therapy with antioxidants. Clinical parameters-interincisal distance, burning sensation, and pain-were recorded at baseline, first, and second follow-up. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured pre- and post-treatment. Statistical analysis included unpaired t-tests and chi-square tests. RESULTS: Both groups improved clinically, but Group 1 showed significantly greater reductions in burning sensation (p= 0.020), pain, and CRP levels (p= 0.033). Although intergroup differences in mouth opening were not statistically significant, Group 1 showed greater improvement over time. Fibrotic band distribution remained unchanged in both groups. No complications were reported with HBOT. CONCLUSION: HBOT provides enhanced symptomatic relief and anti-inflammatory effects in early-stage OSMF when used alongside conventional therapy. While it may not reverse fibrosis, its safety and noninvasive nature support its role in multimodal OSMF management.