Chronic wounds are wounds that fail to progress through normal healing stages within the expected time. Ozone therapy has been investigated as a complementary method that may support standard wound care by contributing to microbial control, oxygen utilization, and the local wound environment.
Last updated:
Key Points
- Chronic wounds require a structured wound care plan and evaluation of circulation, infection, nutrition, and underlying disease.
- Ozone therapy may be considered as an adjunct, not as a replacement for debridement, infection management, pressure relief, or vascular care.
- The approach must be planned by a physician according to wound type and patient risk factors.
What Is a Chronic Wound?
Chronic wounds may include diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, ischemic wounds, and post-surgical wounds with delayed healing.
These wounds often require multidisciplinary management because local wound factors and systemic health conditions may both contribute to delayed healing.
Why Do Wounds Become Chronic?
- Poor circulation
- Infection or high microbial burden
- Diabetes and metabolic imbalance
- Pressure, repeated trauma, or poor wound off-loading
- Inadequate nutrition or immune compromise
The Role of Ozone Therapy
Ozone therapy is being studied for its potential supportive role in microbial control, microcirculation, oxygen utilization, and modulation of the wound environment.
It should be considered only as part of a broader wound management plan and not as an isolated treatment.
Related reading: What Is Ozone Therapy?
Application Methods
Local bagging: A controlled ozone-oxygen mixture may be applied to the wound area using a sealed bag.
Ozonated water or oil: May be used as part of cleansing or dressing protocols when appropriate.
Systemic support: Major autohemotherapy may be considered in selected cases.
Note: The wound type, infection status, vascular condition, and patient’s general health must be evaluated before planning any supportive application.
Scientific Evidence
Studies in chronic wounds and diabetic foot ulcers report supportive effects in some wound healing parameters. However, standard wound care remains the foundation of management, and more controlled studies are needed.
Evidence should be interpreted carefully because study protocols, wound types, patient groups, and follow-up periods may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ozone therapy close a chronic wound by itself?
Which method is used?
Is it suitable for everyone?
References
- [1] Bocci V. Ozone: A New Medical Drug. Springer; 2011.
- [2] Elvis AM, Ekta JS. Ozone therapy: A clinical review. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2011.
- [3] Research on ozone therapy in diabetic foot ulcers and chronic wound management.