Research & Studies
Explore the latest scientific research and clinical studies in hyperbaric oxygen therapy and its applications in various medical conditions.
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Oxygen Therapy in Cluster Headache, Migraine, and Other Headache Disorders
Oxygen therapy (OT) can relieve head pain in certain primary headache disorders, including cluster headache (CH). The goal of this review article is to expand the knowledge regarding the use of oxygen in the treatment of headache disorders.
Normobaric and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the treatment and prevention of migraine and cluster headache
Migraine and cluster headaches are severe and disabling. Migraine affects up to 18% of women, while cluster headaches are much less common (0.2% of the population). A number of acute and prophylactic therapies are available. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is the therapeutic administration of 100% oxygen at environmental pressures greater than one atmosphere, while normobaric oxygen therapy (NBOT) is oxygen administered at one atmosphere. This is an updated version of the original Cochrane review published in Issue 3, 2008 under the title 'Normobaric and hyperbaric oxygen for migraine and cluster headache'.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Following Mid-Cervical Spinal Cord Injury Preserves Diaphragm Muscle Function
Oxidative damage to the diaphragm as a result of cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) promotes muscle atrophy and weakness. Respiratory insufficiency is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) patients, emphasizing the need for strategies to maintain diaphragm function. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) increases the amount of oxygen dissolved into the blood, elevating the delivery of oxygen to skeletal muscle and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. It is proposed that enhanced ROS production due to HBO treatment stimulates adaptations to diaphragm oxidative capacity, resulting in overall reductions in oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that exposure to HBO therapy acutely following SCI would reduce oxidative damage to the diaphragm muscle, preserving muscle fiber size and contractility. Our results demonstrated that lateral contusion injury at C3/4 results in a significant reduction in diaphragm muscle-specific force production and fiber cross-sectional area, which was associated with augmented mitochondrial hydrogen peroxide emission and a reduced mitochondrial respiratory control ratio. In contrast, rats that underwent SCI followed by HBO exposure consisting of 1 h of 100% oxygen at 3 atmospheres absolute (ATA) delivered for 10 consecutive days demonstrated an improvement in diaphragm-specific force production, and an attenuation of fiber atrophy, mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production. These beneficial adaptations in the diaphragm were related to HBO-induced increases in antioxidant capacity and a reduction in atrogene expression. These findings suggest that HBO therapy may be an effective adjunctive therapy to promote respiratory health following cervical SCI.
The Treatment of Perioperative Spinal Cord Injury With Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy A Case Report
The aim of this case report was to describe a potential novel application of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in the successful treatment of a postoperative spinal cord injury and showed that the application of HBOT contributed to the immediate and sustained improvement (ASIA B to ASIA E) in motor recovery after postoperative spinal cord injury. HBOT may represent a new avenue of therapy for spinal cord injury.
Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on patients with spinal cord injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of HBO therapy on motor function, sensory function, and psychology after SCI. HBO therapy may improve motor function, sensory function and psychology after SCI compared to conventional treatments.
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment in the experimental spinal cord injury model
Spinal cord trauma is a major cause of mortality and morbidity. Although no known treatment for spinal cord injury exists, a limited number of effective treatment modalities and procedures are available that improve secondary injury. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment has been used to assist in neurologic recovery after cranial injury or ischemic stroke.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves local microenvironment after spinal cord injury
Clinical studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves motor function in patients with spinal cord injury. The findings of this study indicate that hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduces apoptosis, downregulates aquaporin 4/9 mRNA and protein expression in injured spinal cord tissue, improves the local microenvironment for nerve regeneration, and protects and repairs the spinal cord after injury.
Improvement in erectile dysfunction in patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen treatment: A prospective, double-blind, double controlled study
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a worldwide health problem. Oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5I) are used in its first-line treatment. This study aimed to compare the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment with PDE5I treatment and determine the patient-dependent factors affecting the efficacy of the HBO treatment and duration of action of HBO treatment.
Hyperbaric oxygen can induce angiogenesis and recover erectile function
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is caused by microvascular or macrovascular insufficiency in the majority of patients. Recent studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can induce angiogenesis in different body organs. The effect of HBOT on the non-surgery-related ED has not been investigated yet. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effects of HBOT on sexual function and penile vascular bed in non-surgical ED patients.
Progress in the mechanism of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for erectile dysfunction: a narrative review
The present review delineates the potential mechanisms through which hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may exert its therapeutic effects on erectile dysfunction (ED). Evidence suggests that HBOT could ameliorate ED through a multifaceted approach, including enhancement of vascular function, facilitation of neural recovery, elevation of nitric oxide (NO) levels, reduction of RhoA expression, mitigation of inflammatory responses, maintenance of androgen levels and alleviation of adverse emotional states.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a treatment for erectile dysfunction: a meta-analysis
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment in which the patient is exposed to 100% oxygen at a higher than atmospheric pressure. Over the past few decades, HBOT has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions. In recent times, there has been a rising curiosity regarding the potential therapeutic benefits of HBOT in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED).
The Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Erectile Function Recovery in a Rat Cavernous Nerve Injury Model
Cavernosal oxygenation appears to be important for preservation of erectile tissue health. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been shown to improve tissue oxygenation and has neuromodulatory effects.
Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen After Moderate-Intensity Exercise on Fatigue: A Single-blind Crossover Randomized Trial
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of exposure to HBO after long-duration, medium-intensity training on recovery from perceived fatigue in a single-blind study.HBO may have effects on recovery from perceived fatigue following long-duration, moderate-intensity exercise.
Hyperbaric oxygen reduces inflammation, oxygenates injured muscle, and regenerates skeletal muscle via macrophage and satellite cell activation
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBO) promotes rapid recovery from soft tissue injuries. This study demonstrates that HBO has a dual role in decreasing inflammation and accelerating myogenesis in muscle contusion injuries.
Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on exercise-induced muscle damage.
Early and frequent treatments seem to be important factors when it comes to the success of HBO2 therapy.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Effects on Sports Injuries
In the last decade, competitive sports have taken on a whole new meaning, where intensity has increased together with the incidence of injuries to the athletes. Therefore, there is a strong need to develop better and faster treatments that allow the injured athlete to return to competition faster than with the normal course of rehabilitation, with a low risk of re-injury. Hyperbaric therapies are methods used to treat diseases or injuries using pressures higher than local atmospheric pressure inside a hyperbaric chamber. Within hyperbaric therapies, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) is the administration of pure oxygen (100%) at pressures greater than atmospheric pressure, i.e. more than 1 atmosphere absolute (ATA), for therapeutic reasons. The application of HBO for the treatment of sports injuries has recently been suggested in the scientific literature as a modality of therapy either as a primary or an adjunct treatment. Although results have proven to be promising in terms of using HBO as a treatment modality in sports-related injuries, these studies have been limited due to the small sample size, lack of blinding and randomization problems. HBO seems to be promising in the recovery of injuries for high-performance athletes; however, there is a need for larger samples, randomized, controlled, double-blinded clinical trials combined with studies using animal models so that its effects and mechanisms can be identified to confirm that it is a safe and effective therapy for the treatment of sports injuries.
The Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen and Active Recovery on Lactate Removal and Fatigue Index.
The purpose of this study was to compare active recovery and recovery using hyperbaric oxygen on lactate removal and fatigue index.
Hyperbaric Oxygen in the Treatment of Acute Muscle Stretch Injuries
This study examines the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy after an acute muscle stretch injury in an animal model and it suggests suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may play a role in accelerating recovery after acute muscle stretch injury.
Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on recovery after a football match in young players: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Football is a physically demanding sport that requires effective recovery strategies to maintain performance level and prevent injuries. This study investigated if a single 1-h hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) session affects recovery and performance after a football match in elite youth players. Our findings suggest that HBOT may have a moderate positive effect on perceived recovery and wellbeing.
Early Recovery of Exercise-Related Muscular Injury by HBOT
Early recovery from muscular injury is crucial for elite athletes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been reported to be beneficial in terms of accelerating cell recovery and tissue repair, which are considered to be helpful for eliminating fatigue and recovering stamina. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of HBOT for exercise-related muscular injury. Forty-one athletes with exercise-related muscular injuries were recruited and randomized into an HBOT group and a control group. All participants received 10 sessions of either HBOT or placebo treatment. The brief pain inventory (BPI) was completed, and serum samples were analyzed. Data were collected before treatment (T1), at the end of the fifth treatment session (T2), at the end of the tenth treatment session (T3), and two weeks after T3 (T4). At T3, the HBOT group showed prominent reductions in the levels of creatine phosphokinase (CK), glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), and myoglobin (MB), which lasted until T4. However, the control group did not present any statistical differences in levels from T1 to T4. In terms of pain intensity and interference, the HBOT group showed significant improvements at T3, while no improvements were observed in the control group. In conclusion, HBOT facilitates the early recovery of exercise-related muscular injury. This trial is registered with ISRCTN17817041.
The effects of low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen treatment before and after maximal exercise on lactate concentration, heart rate recovery, and antioxidant capacity
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment before and after maximal exercise on lactate concentration and heart rate and antioxidant capacity. Ten healthy male college students were recruited from amateur soccer players. Subjects were performed a maximal exercise 3 times at intervals of at least 7 days according to the treatment method (control, pretreatment, posttreatment). Lactate concentration, heart rate, and antioxidant capacity were measured before, post, and after recovery 30 min of maximal exercise. The lactate concentration and heart rate of recovery 30 min was significantly lower in the low-pressure HBO treated group after the maximal exercise compared with the control group and the low-pressure HBO treated group before maximal exercise, and it could affect the removal of the fatigue substance caused by the maximal exercise. These results suggest that the low-pressure HBO treatment which is a new possibility for recovery of peripheral fatigue.
Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Inflammation, Oxidative/Antioxidant Balance, and Muscle Damage after Acute Exercise in Normobaric, Normoxic and Hypobaric, Hypoxic Environments: A Pilot Study
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on inflammation, the oxidative/antioxidant balance, and muscle damage after acute exercise in normobaric, normoxic (NN) and hypobaric, hypoxic (HH) environments. HBOT treatment in the recovery phase had a positive impact on relieving the inflammatory response and muscle damage after exercise.
Post-Exercise Hyperbaric Oxygenation Improves Recovery for Subsequent Performance
The improvement of athletes’ recovery seems crucial to maintaining a high-performance level. Since hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) could be a valuable recovery method, this study aimed at determining the effects of post-exercise HBO at modest pressure (97% O2; 1.3 ATA) on physiological response and subsequent cycling performance compared to passive recovery (PR; 21% O2; 1 ATA).
Mild hyperbaric oxygen for the early improvement of mood disturbance induced by high-intensity exercise.
Excessive training stress can result in decreased performance and deep fatigue due to hormonal changes. conclude that MHO can improve mood disturbances, especially in the fatigue-inertia and tension-anxiety domains, after high-intensity exercise. This study suggest that MHO is potentially an effective recovery method for mood states after high-intensity training.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves neurogenesis and brain blood supply in piriform cortex in rats with vascular dementia
The results of this study suggest that HBO therapy can improve the blood supply and promote the neurogenesis in the Pir of adult rats with the VD.
Meta-Analysis on the Efficacy and Safety of Hyperbaric Oxygen as Adjunctive Therapy for Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia (VD) is a common type of disease in the elderly. Numerous clinical trials have suggested that hyperbaric oxygen is an effective and safe complementary therapy for aging-related disorders. However, there is no reliable systematic evidence regarding hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for the treatment of VD. These researchers performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of HBOT in treating VD.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Alzheimer's dementia with positron emission tomography imaging: a case report
A 58-year-old female was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) which was rapidly progressive in the 8 months prior to initiation of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). 18Fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) brain imaging demonstrated global and typical metabolic deficits in AD (posterior temporal-parietal watershed and cingulate areas). An 8-week course of HBOT reversed the patient’s symptomatic decline. Repeat PET imaging demonstrated a corresponding 6.5–38% regional and global increase in brain metabolism, including increased metabolism in the typical AD diagnostic areas of the brain. Continued HBOT in conjunction with standard pharmacotherapy maintained the patient’s symptomatic level of function over an ensuing 22 months. This is the first reported case of simultaneous HBOT-induced symptomatic and 18FDG PET documented improvement of brain metabolism in AD and suggests an effect on global pathology in AD.
Integrative Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Healthspan, Age-Related Vascular Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia
The present review aims to examine the existing evidence indicative of a potential therapeutic role for HBOT-induced hyperoxia against age-related cerebromicrovascular pathologies contributing to cognitive impairment, dementia and decreased healthspan in the elderly.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for post concussion symptoms: issues may affect the results
HBOT has showed great potential in neuroprotection and neurogenesis. Post concussion syndrome (PCS) is a set of symptoms succeeding in 25 % of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) patients. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been demonstrated as an effective method for treating acute and severe TBI, but its efficacy in PCS remains controversial. In this editorial, we reviewed the clinical studies of HBOT in PCS, summarized the limitations of these studies, and discussed the limitations: inappropriate Sham group using room air at 1.2 or 1.3 ATA; delayed HBO administration; subjective assessment methods; time point for outcome assessment and small sample size. We hope that our concerns will be helpful for future clinical studies of HBO therapy in TBI or other neurological disorders.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Improve Post Concussion Syndrome Years after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury - Randomized Prospective Trial
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and disability in the US. Approximately 70-90% of the TBI cases are classified as mild, and up to 25% of them will not recover and suffer chronic neurocognitive impairments. The main pathology in these cases involves diffuse brain injuries, which are hard to detect by anatomical imaging yet noticeable in metabolic imaging. The current study tested the effectiveness of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in improving brain function and quality of life in mTBI patients suffering chronic neurocognitive impairments.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for mild traumatic brain injury persistent postconcussion syndrome a randomized controlled trial
Persistent postconcussion syndrome (PPCS) after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a significant public health and military problem for which there is limited treatment evidence. The aim of this study was to determine whether forty 150 kPa hyperbaric oxygen therapies (HBOTs) can improve symptoms and cognitive function in subjects with the PPCS of mTBI, using a randomized controlled crossover design with 2-month follow-up
Systematic Review and Dosage Analysis: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Efficacy in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Persistent Postconcussion Syndrome
n multiple randomized and randomized controlled studies HBOT at 1.5 ATA oxygen demonstrated statistically significant symptomatic and cognitive or cognitive improvements alone in patients with mild traumatic brain injury Persistent Postconcussion Syndrome.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: An Evidence-Based Primer for Emergency Physicians
The aim of this article is to provide an overview of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as it pertains to an emergency physician. We hope that this review will help emergency physicians identify conditions that may benefit from transfer to a hyperbaric facility.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy A new look on treating stroke and traumatic brain injury
Although hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is common as a treatment for injuries, this study aimed to research the ability of HBOT in preconditioning to diminish any potential damage. The hypothesis stated that HBOT preconditioning alleviated the death of cells in primary rat neuronal cells (PRNCs) by transferring mitochondria from astrocytes. In this experiment, PRNCs were given an HBOT treatment before a tumor necrosis factor-alpha or lipopolysaccharide injury which resembled cell death associated with stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI). After being examined, the study found more cell viability in the PRNCs that had received HBOT precondition and a mitochondrial transfer. The mitochondrial transfer was visualized by a series of images showing the transfer after the HBOT treatment. This study demonstrated the ability of HBOT preconditioning as a treatment for inflammation in stroke and TBI, with the transfer of mitochondria from astrocytes to PRNCs reducing cell death. Along with discussion of the study, this review also focuses on different stroke treatments in comparison with HBOT.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Induce Angiogenesis and Regeneration of Nerve Fibers in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Recent clinical studies in stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) victims suffering chronic neurological injury present evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can induce neuroplasticity. The aim of this study is to assess the neurotherapeutic effect of HBOT on prolonged post-concussion syndrome (PPCS) due to TBI, using brain microstructure imaging.
Why provide 40 sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to patients with traumatic brain injury?
In summary, historical accounts and clinical evidence indicate that 40 or more HBOT sessions are safe and effective. Scientific evidence indicates that growing blood vessels require at least 42 days or more of continued vasculature-targeted therapy.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Acute Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review
This comprehensive review demonstrates that HBO2 has the potential to be the first significant treatment in the acute phase of severe TBI.
Case report: Treatment of mild traumatic brain injury with hyperbaric oxygen
Two United States Air Force Airmen were injured in a roadside improvised explosive device (lED) blast in Iraq in January 2008. Both airmen suffered concussive injuries and developed irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches, memory difficulties and cognitive difficulties as symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Six months after injury, repeat Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) testing showed deterioration, when compared to pre-injury baseline ANAM assessment, in all measured areas (simple reaction time, procedural reaction time, code substitution learning, code substitution delayed, mathematical processing, and matching to sample). The airmen were treated with hyperbaric oxygen in treatments of 100% oxygen for one hour at 1.5 atmospheres absolute, resulting in rapid improvement of headaches and sleep disturbances, improvement in all symptoms and resolution of most symptoms. Repeat ANAM testing after completion of the hyperbaric treatments - nine months after initial injury - showed improvement in all areas, with most measures improving to pre-injury baseline levels. The airmen received no other treatment besides medical monitoring. Repeat neuropsychologic testing confirmed the improvement. We conclude that the improvement in symptoms and ANAM performance is most likely attributable to HBO treatment.
Hyperbaric oxygen B-level evidence in mild traumatic brain injury clinical trials
First, to demonstrate that B-level evidence exists for the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an effective treatment in mild to moderate traumatic brain injury/persistent postconcussion syndrome (mTBI/PPCS). Second, to alert readers and researchers that currently used pressurized air controls (≥21% O2, >1.0 ATA) are therapeutically active and cannot be utilized as sham controls without further validation.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for the Management of Mild and Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: A Single-Center Experience
HBOT using 1.5 atmosphere absolute in increments of 40 sessions was found to be a safe and effective modality in the management of the long-term sequelae of TBI. HBOT should be considered in the management of this patient population.
The Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen on Symptoms after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
In this single-center, double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled, prospective trial at the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, the effects of 2.4 atmospheres absolute (ATA) hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) on post-concussion symptoms in 50 military service members with at least one combat-related, mild traumatic brain injury were examined. Each subject received 30 sessions of either a sham compression (room air at 1.3 ATA) or HBO2 treatments at 2.4 ATA over an 8-week period. Individual and total symptoms scores on Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT®) and composite scores on Post-traumatic Disorder Check List-Military Version (PCL-M) were measured just prior to intervention and 6 weeks after completion of intervention. Difference testing of post-intervention means between the sham-control and HBO2 group revealed no significant differences on the PCL-M composite score (t=−0.205, p=0.84) or on the ImPACT total score (t=−0.943, p=0.35), demonstrating no significant effect for HBO2 at 2.4 ATA. PCL-M composite scores and ImPACT total scores for sham-control and HBO2 groups revealed significant improvement over the course of the study for both the sham-control group (t=3.76, p=0.001) and the HBO2 group (t=3.90, p=0.001), demonstrating no significant HBO2 effect. Paired t-test results revealed 10 ImPACT scale scores in the sham-control group improved from pre- to post-testing, whereas two scale scores significantly improved in the HBO2 group. One PCL-M measure improved from pre- to post-testing in both groups. This study showed that HBO2 at 2.4 ATA pressure had no effect on post-concussive symptoms after mild TBI.
The Future of TBI: Hyperbaric Oxygen as a Primary Therapeutic Approach
Pressurized tank therapy has existed for hundreds of years, gaining success around the turn of the 20th century. Today, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or HBOT, is used primarily for decompression sickness. However, it is occasionally applied as a second-line treatment for many medical conditions involving cell death and ischemia, such as stroke, infection, and bodily trauma. Within the past several years, scientists discovered the potential for HBOT in the arena of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The therapy is benign, noninvasive, and potentially very beneficial. In preliminary studies, HBOT has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with TBI as well as significantly decreasing trauma to the brain as seen on SPECT scan. There is an increasing need for new therapies to treat TBI, especially in the area of professional contact sports and the military. The potential for HBOT as a first-line treatment for TBI is significant, although more studies must take place to prove its continued efficacy.
A Multicenter Observational Study of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)/Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) and TBI/Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Purpose This is an observational study of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (1.5 atmospheres, 100% O2) for traumatic brain injury (TBI) with or without Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to ascertain in a large, multicenter cohort if there is a long term benefit for a new use of a known safe treatment. Goals a) Provide access to a safe treatment for a new indication of an FDA-cleared Medical device for mild-moderate chronic TBI and/or PTSD while ascertaining broader efficacy under controlled conditions. b) Ascertain the optimal number of treatments in the range from 40-80 HBOT sessions. c) Ascertain long-term (2 year) outcome of the HBOT 1.5 ata protocol.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for traumatic brain injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health issue. The complexity of TBI has precluded the use of effective therapies. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been shown to be neuroprotective in multiple neurological disorders, but its efficacy in the management of TBI remains controversial. This review focuses on HBOT applications within the context of experimental and clinical TBI. We also discuss its potential neuroprotective mechanisms. Early or delayed multiple sessions of low atmospheric pressure HBOT can reduce intracranial pressure, improve mortality, as well as promote neurobehavioral recovery. The complimentary, synergistic actions of HBOT include improved tissue oxygenation and cellular metabolism, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Thus HBOT may serve as a promising neuroprotective strategy that when combined with other therapeutic targets for TBI patients which could improve long-term outcomes.
Role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in severe head injury in children
A brain injury results in a temporary or permanent impairment of cognitive, emotional, and/or physical function. Predicting the outcome of pediatric brain injury is difficult. Prognostic instruments are not precise enough to reliably predict individual patient's mortality and long-term functional status. The purpose of this article is to provide a guide to the strengths and limitations of the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in treating pediatric patients with severe brain injury.
EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTY OF HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY IN ACUTE WOUNDS: A MICROBIOLOGICAL, PATHOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL CORRELATION
Orthopaedic trauma especially open fractures are associated with increased use of hospital resources, social challenges, and financial loss. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) is an adjunct to reduce wound related complications and thus improve outcomes. In the present study, the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory property of HBO in acute wounds were analysed by infrared thermography, microbiological analysis and inflammatory markers. The results show that the HBO therapy is effective and can act as an adjunct for wound healing.
Management of Crush Injury’s Complications Using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Case Series Authors
Crush injury occurs due to an external trauma mechanism that directly affects the skin, muscle, and bone tissue. Crush injuries can involve several parts of the body at the same time. When accompanied by handling, wound healing in crush injury can be long-term, so that it can affect the function of the patient. Various complications that can occur ranging from secondary infection, necrosis, recurrent bleeding, to compartment syndrome. We reported serial cases of crush injury with various clinical presentations and complications, varying in the age range of 16-65 years. All four patients were given multiple managements, such as open reduction external fixation and extensive debridement. There were complications such as secondary infection and delay in the wound healing process in patients who did not on time for follow-up. The four patients received additional treatment in the form of wound dressings hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) with 5-10 90-minute sessions under 2.4 ATA pressure for 10 consecutive days. Follow-up was carried out again within a period of one month to compare the wound condition before and after HBOT. The clinical condition was getting better, marked by the formation of granulation tissue. The state of hyperoxia in HBOT accelerated the inflammatory process and angiogenesis during the wound healing process characterized by the eradication of bacteria in the wound tissue and accelerated neovascularization formation. In conclusion, adequate therapy, wound dressing, and patient compliance affect patient outcome. Moreover, the addition of hyperbaric oxygen therapy has shown to accelerate the wound healing process and restore the patient's limb function.
The Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Crush Injuries
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been approved for primary or adjunctive care in 14 indications. A hyperbaric environment exists when a patient's whole body is physically exposed to 100% oxygen and pressure that is greater than one atmosphere absolute. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy works through the ideal gas laws and is effective as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of crush injuries. Oxygen is considered a drug and can have contraindications and adverse effects. Hyperbaric therapy works through several different mechanisms in the crush injury. Effects of hyperoxygenation, reduction of edema, infection control enhancement, blood vessel and collagen formation, and reduction of free radicals and reperfusion injury help in healing in patient with crush injuries.
The effect of mild-pressure hyperbaric therapy (Oasis O2) on fatigue and oxidative stress
Mild-pressure hyperbaric therapy (mHBT) has become increasingly popular among elite athletes and most recently among the general public yet there is very little scientific underpinnings on its therapeutic use. In this study, fifteen healthy volunteers (8 men, 7 women, mean age 29.7 ± 8.1 years) were exposed to 1.3 atmospheres absolute (ATA) for 40 minutes in a mild hyperbaric chamber called “Oasis O2” to determine the effect of ambient air at 1.3 ATA on oxidative stress, antioxidant potential, fatigue, and blood chemistry. Reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs), an index of oxidative stress, significantly reduced by 11% (p = 0.006), while biological antioxidant potential (BAP), an index of antioxidant capacity, did not show a significant change (p = 0.749). WBC count significantly reduced by 10.4% (p = 0.005) whereas WBC differential did not show a marked change. The mean visual analog scale (VAS) score for fatigue significantly decreased from 5.0 to 2.1 (p < 0.001). Our findings suggest that mild-pressure hyperbaric therapy reduces oxidative stress as indicated by a significant decrease in serum ROM, and also helps improve fatigue as seen by a significant decrease in VAS fatigue scores.
Effects of mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy on timing sequence recovery of muscle fatigue in Chinese university male athletes
This study aimed to investigate the timing sequence recovery effects of single and repeated Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (MHOT) on muscle fatigue induced by cycling exercise through a comprehensive set of parameters.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Exploring the Clinical Evidence
GENERAL PURPOSE: To provide information about hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), its mechanisms, indications and safe applications based on clinical evidence.
Exposure to Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Increases Blood Flow and Resting Energy Expenditure but not Oxidative Stress
This study examined the effects of exposure to mild hyperbaric oxygen on blood flow and resting energy expenditure.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Over the past 40 years hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been recommended and used in a wide variety of medical conditions, often without adequate scientific validation of efficacy or safety. Consequently a high degree of medical scepticism has developed regarding its use. The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society approves use of hyperbaric oxygen for a few conditions for which there is thought to be reasonable scientific evidence or well validated clinical experience. In these conditions early referral is essential.
Mild hyperbaric oxygen: mechanisms and effects
Adequate oxygen supply by exposure to mild hyperbaric oxygen at appropriately high atmospheric pressure (1266–1317 hPa) and increased oxygen concentration (35–40% oxygen) has a possibility of improving the oxidative metabolism in cells and tissues without barotrauma and excessive production of reactive oxygen species. Therefore, metabolic syndrome and lifestyle-related diseases, including type 2 diabetes and hypertension, in rats were inhibited and/or improved by exposure to mild hyperbaric oxygen. It accelerated the growth-induced increase in oxidative capacity of the skeletal muscle in rats and inhibited the age-related decrease in oxidative capacity of the skeletal muscle in mice. A decrease in dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of mice with Parkinson’s disease was inhibited by exposure to mild hyperbaric oxygen. This review describes the beneficial effects of exposure to mild hyperbaric oxygen on some metabolic diseases and their perspectives.
Bench-to-bedside review: Oxygen as a drug
Oxygen is one of the most commonly used therapeutic agents. Injudicious use of oxygen at high partial pressures (hyperoxia) for unproven indications, its known toxic potential, and the acknowledged roles of reactive oxygen species in tissue injury led to skepticism regarding its use. A large body of data indicates that hyperoxia exerts an extensive profile of physiologic and pharmacologic effects that improve tissue oxygenation, exert anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and augment tissue repair mechanisms. These data set the rationale for the use of hyperoxia in a list of clinical conditions characterized by tissue hypoxia, infection, and consequential impaired tissue repair. Data on regional hemodynamic effects of hyperoxia and recent compelling evidence on its anti-inflammatory actions incited a surge of interest in the potential therapeutic effects of hyperoxia in myocardial revascularization and protection, in traumatic and nontraumatic ischemicanoxic brain insults, and in prevention of surgical site infections and in alleviation of septic and nonseptic local and systemic inflammatory responses. Although the margin of safety between effective and potentially toxic doses of oxygen is relatively narrow, the ability to carefully control its dose, meticulous adherence to currently accepted therapeutic protocols, and individually tailored treatment regimens make it a cost-effective safe drug.
Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy for older adults with T2D and Mild Cognitive Impairment - A baseline characteristics
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment in which oxygen-enriched air (up to 100%) is administered to patients in a chamber at a pressure above one atmosphere absolute and is approved for the treatment of T2D ischemic wounds. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a risk factor for dementia. Ischemia due to vascular pathology is hypothesized to be an underlying mechanism for this association. Evidence small clinical trials suggests that HBOT improves hypoxic/ischemic brain injuries, consequently inducing brain angiogenesis, leading to cognitive improvement.
Improvement of memory impairments in poststroke patients by hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Several recent studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO₂) therapy carry cognitive and motor therapeutic effects for patients with acquired brain injuries. The goal of this study was to address the specific effects of HBO₂ on memory impairments after stroke at late chronic stages
Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy for older adults with T2D and Mild Cognitive Impairment - A baseline characteristics
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment in which oxygen-enriched air (up to 100%) is administered to patients in a chamber at a pressure above one atmosphere absolute and is approved for the treatment of T2D ischemic wounds. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a risk factor for dementia. Ischemia due to vascular pathology is hypothesized to be an underlying mechanism for this association. Evidence small clinical trials suggests that HBOT improves hypoxic/ischemic brain injuries, consequently inducing brain angiogenesis, leading to cognitive improvement.
Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy for older adults with T2D and Mild Cognitive Impairment - A baseline characteristics
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment in which oxygen-enriched air (up to 100%) is administered to patients in a chamber at a pressure above one atmosphere absolute and is approved for the treatment of T2D ischemic wounds. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a risk factor for dementia. Ischemia due to vascular pathology is hypothesized to be an underlying mechanism for this association. Evidence small clinical trials suggests that HBOT improves hypoxic/ischemic brain injuries, consequently inducing brain angiogenesis, leading to cognitive improvement.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves cognitive functioning after brain injury
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been widely applied and recognized in the treatment of brain injury; however, the correlation between the protective effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and changes of metabolites in the brain remains unclear. To investigate the effect and potential mechanism of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on cognitive functioning in rats, we established traumatic brain injury models using Feeney's free falling method. We treated rat models with hyperbaric oxygen therapy at 0.2 MPa for 60 minutes per day. The Morris water maze test for spatial navigation showed that the average escape latency was significantly prolonged and cognitive function decreased in rats with brain injury. After treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy for 1 and 2 weeks, the rats’ spatial learning and memory abilities were improved. Hydrogen proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis showed that the N-acetylaspartate/creatine ratio in the hippocampal CA3 region was significantly increased at 1 week, and the N-acetylaspartate/choline ratio was significantly increased at 2 weeks after hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Nissl staining and immunohistochemical staining showed that the number of nerve cells and Nissl bodies in the hippocampal CA3 region was significantly increased, and glial fibrillary acidic protein positive cells were decreased after a 2-week hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment. Our findings indicate that hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly improves cognitive functioning in rats with traumatic brain injury, and the potential mechanism is mediated by metabolic changes and nerve cell restoration in the hippocampal CA3 region.
Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy for older adults with T2D and Mild Cognitive Impairment - A baseline characteristics
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment in which oxygen-enriched air (up to 100%) is administered to patients in a chamber at a pressure above one atmosphere absolute and is approved for the treatment of T2D ischemic wounds. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a risk factor for dementia. Ischemia due to vascular pathology is hypothesized to be an underlying mechanism for this association. Evidence small clinical trials suggests that HBOT improves hypoxic/ischemic brain injuries, consequently inducing brain angiogenesis, leading to cognitive improvement.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves neurocognitive functions of post-stroke patients – a retrospective analysis
The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of HBOT on overall cognitive functions of post-stroke patients in the chronic stage. The nature, type and location of the stroke were investigated as possible modifiers.
Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on chronic neurocognitive deficits of post-traumatic brain injury patients: retrospective analysis
The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in participants suffering from chronic neurological deficits due to traumatic brain injury (TBI) of all severities in the largest cohort evaluated so far with objective cognitive function tests and metabolic brain imaging.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a neuromodulatory technique: a review of the recent evidence
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has recently emerged as a promising neuromodulatory modality for treating several neurological and psychological disorders. Various studies indicate that HBOT can promote brain recovery and neuroplasticity through the modulation of key cellular and molecular mechanisms. HBOT affects multiple primary pathways and cellular functions including mitochondrial biogenesis and function (increased Bcl-2, reduced Bax, and enhanced ATP production), neurogenesis (upregulation of Wnt-3 and VEGF/ERK signaling), synaptogenesis (elevated GAP43 and synaptophysin expression), and anti-inflammatory responses (reduced TNF-α and IL-6). These mechanisms contribute to significant clinical benefits, such as enhanced cognitive function, improved recovery from traumatic brain injury and post-concussion syndrome, and symptom reduction in conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder and fibromyalgia. By influencing these molecular targets, HBOT offers a novel approach to neuromodulation that warrants further exploration. This review discusses the representative mechanisms of action of HBOT and highlights its therapeutic neuromodulatory effects and potential clinical applications across various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy of spinal cord injury
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex disease process that involves both primary and secondary mechanisms of injury and can leave patients with devastating functional impairment as well as psychological debilitation. While no curative treatment is available for spinal cord injury, current therapeutic approaches focus on reducing the secondary injury that follows SCI. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy has shown promising neuroprotective effects in several experimental studies, but the limited number of clinical reports have shown mixed findings. This review will provide an overview of the potential mechanisms by which HBO therapy may exert neuroprotection, provide a summary of the clinical application of HBO therapy in patients with SCI, and discuss avenues for future studies.
The Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment on Myoblasts and Muscles After Contusion Injury
Sports recovery and muscular regeneration via HBOT. Muscle injuries are frequently encountered in athletes and trauma patients. For example, hamstring injury is the most frequent diagnosis reported in both major and minor league baseball players, accounting for approximately 6% of all injuries.1 These injuries can be caused by a variety of mechanisms, such as laceration, strain, and contusion.2-4 Although the muscle tissue retains the potential to regenerate, the healing process is often slow and incomplete because of the fibrosis within. Therefore, many alternative methods have been discussed widely such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids injection, low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS), cryotherapy and hyperbaric oxygen (HBO).5, 6 HBO treatment is the application of 100% oxygen at environmental pressures greater than one atmosphere.7 It has been widely applied to promote healing of bone fracture,8 articular cartilage injury,9 spinal cord injury,10 and skeletal muscle injury. Several reports have indicated the efficacy of HBO in muscle crush injuries, muscle contusions, and sports-related injuries.11, 12 For example, myogenin is a muscle-specific transcription factor coexpressed with MyoD until the myoblasts fuse with each other and differentiate into the multinucleated muscle cells. Hypoxic conditions will impair the expression of myogenin and MyoD,13 while exposure to HBO results in a higher expression of myogenin and MyoD than under normoxic conditions. Which implies HBO accelerates healing of injured muscles.14 HBO treatment increased the myoblast growth rate and myogenin and actin production. Better histologic and physiologic performances were also found after HBO treatment in an animal contusion model.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment: Effects on Mitochondrial Function and Oxidative Stress
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT)—the administration of 100% oxygen at atmospheric pressure (ATA) greater than 1 ATA—increases the proportion of dissolved oxygen in the blood five- to twenty-fold. This increase in accessible oxygen places the mitochondrion—the organelle that consumes most of the oxygen that we breathe—at the epicenter of HBOT’s effects. As the mitochondrion is also a major site for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), it is possible that HBOT will increase also oxidative stress. Depending on the conditions of the HBO treatment (duration, pressure, umber of treatments), short-term treatments have been shown to have deleterious effects on both mitochondrial activity and production of ROS. Long-term treatment, on the other hand, improves mitochondrial activity and leads to a decrease in ROS levels, partially due to the effects of HBOT, which increases antioxidant defense mechanisms. Many diseases and conditions are characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and imbalance between ROS and antioxidant scavengers, suggesting potential therapeutic intervention for HBOT. In the present review, we will present current views on the effects of HBOT on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress, the interplay between them and the implications for several diseases.
Hyperbaric Oxygen for Cerebral Vasospasm and Brain Injury Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
HBOT protects against vasospasm and ischemic injury. Faced with the paucity of information as to what degree HBO is capable of antagonizing vasospasm after SAH, the authors postulate that the major beneficial effects of HBO in SAH include a reduction of acute brain injury and combating brain damage caused by CVS. Consequently, authors reviewed the effects of HBO on SAH-induced hypoxic signaling and other mechanisms of neurovascular injury. Moreover, authors hypothesize that HBO administered after SAH may “precondition” the brain against the detrimental sequelae of vasospasm. In conclusion, the existing evidence speaks in favor of administering HBO in both acute and delayed phase after SAH; however, further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and to establish the optimal regimen of treatment.
Hyperbaric oxygen in chronic traumatic brain injury: oxygen, pressure, and gene therapy
Gene expression changes with repetitive low-pressure oxygen therapy. HBOT is the use of increased total atmospheric pressure and partial pressure of oxygen over ambient total and oxygen partial pressures to treat various disease processes and their diseases. The combination of increased atmospheric pressure and hyperoxia express or suppress upto 8101 genes in human cells [35]. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy appears to be the oldest, most enduring, and most effective gene therapy. Physicians and researchers are playing a symphony with gene expression and suppression, the combination of which is dependent on the different total pressures and partial pressures of oxygen. With an appreciation of the scientific definition of hyperbaric oxygen therapy the field of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine is poised to rapidly expand with investigation of the lower dosing ranges of pressure and hyperoxia for a multitude of diagnoses.
Hyperbaric Oxygen: Its Mechanisms and Efficacy
This article outlines therapeutic mechanisms of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and reviews data on its efficacy for clinical problems seen by plastic and reconstructive surgeons.
Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on the Increase of iNOS and NFKB Expressions and the Acceleration of Wound Healing Process during Inflammation and Proliferation Phases
HBOT downregulates inflammation via cytokine modulation. Wound is one of the most common causes of morbidity in developing countries. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO), which can improve tissue oxygenation and stimulate the formation of H2O2 as a secondary messenger to Nuclear Factor Kappa Beta (NFKB) Phosporylation, has increasingly been used in wound treatment. Principal mechanism of HBO is based on intracellular generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS), including Nitric Oxide (NO). In the wound area, moreover, the great amount of NO is mostly generated by the enzyme inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) through NFKB pathway. The beneficial effects of NO in wound repair may be attributed to its functional influences on angiogenesis, inflammation, cell proliferation, matrix deposition and remodeling.Accordingly, this research aims to determine whether Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO) can improve iNOS and NFKB expressions and wound healing process.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Diminish Fibromyalgia Syndrome – Prospective Clinical Trial
Significant symptom improvement in fibromyalgia patients. Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a persistent and debilitating disorder estimated to impair the quality of life of 2–4% of the population, with 9:1 female-to-male incidence ratio. FMS is an important representative example of central nervous system sensitization and is associated with abnormal brain activity. Key symptoms include chronic widespread pain, allodynia and diffuse tenderness, along with fatigue and sleep disturbance. The syndrome is still elusive and refractory. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on symptoms and brain activity in FMS.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases telomere length and decreases immunosenescence in isolated blood cells: a prospective trial
Strong support for anti-aging benefits through telomere elongation. Aging is characterized by the progressive loss of physiological capacity. At the cellular level, two key hallmarks of the aging process include telomere length (TL) shortening and cellular senescence. Repeated intermittent hyperoxic exposures, using certain hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) protocols, can induce regenerative effects which normally occur during hypoxia. The aim of the current study was to evaluate whether HBOT affects TL and senescent cell concentrations in a normal, non-pathological, aging adult population.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves neurocognitive functions of post-stroke patients – a retrospective analysis
Evidence for improved cognition and reduced inflammation after stroke. Previous studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can improve the motor functions and memory of post-stroke patients in the chronic stage. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of HBOT on overall cognitive functions of post-stroke patients in the chronic stage. The nature, type and location of the stroke were investigated as possible modifiers.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for the management of chronic wounds: patient selection and perspectives
Details clinical improvements in chronic wounds and diabetic ulcers. The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society includes “select problem wounds” as an accepted indication for the use of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2), however, the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) has dominated any discussions of problem wounds because of the prevalence of DFUs in today’s patient population and the reimbursement available for their treatment. Other wound types (eg, calciphylaxis ulcers, sickle cell ulcers, and pyoderma gangrenosum) that have well-deserved reputations as problem wounds have been infrequently treated with HBO2. While there are sound fundamental reasons why additional oxygen may have benefits in the treatment of these wounds, the challenge is finding enough high quality evidence to support routine use of HBO2.
Oxidative stress is fundamental to hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Provides insight into how HBOT modulates neuroplasticity. The goal of this review is to outline advances addressing the role that reactive species of oxygen and nitrogen play in therapeutic mechanisms of hyperbaric oxygen. The review will be organized around major categories of problems or processes where controlled clinical trials have demonstrated clinical efficacy for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Reactive species are now recognized to play a major role in cell signal transduction cascades, and the discussion will focus on how hyperbaric oxygen acts through these pathways to mediate wound healing and ameliorate postischemic and inflammatory injuries.
Reflections on the neurotherapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen
Provides insight into how HBOT modulates neuroplasticity. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke are the major causes of brain damage and chronic neurological impairments. There is no agreed-upon effective metabolic intervention for TBI and stroke patients with chronic neurological dysfunction. Clinical studies published this year present convincing evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) might be the coveted neurotherapeutic method for brain repair. Here we discuss the multi-faceted role of HBOT in neurotherapeutics, in light of recent persuasive evidence for HBOT efficacy in brain repair and the new understanding of brain energy management and response to damage. We discuss optimal timing of treatment, dosage, suitable candidates and promising future directions.
Significant recovery from long COVID symptoms using HBOT.
Post-COVID-19 condition refers to a range of persisting physical, neurocognitive, and neuropsychological symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The mechanism can be related to brain tissue pathology caused by virus invasion or indirectly by neuroinflammation and hypercoagulability. This randomized, sham-control, double blind trial evaluated the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT or HBO2 therapy) on post-COVID-19 patients with ongoing symptoms for at least 3 months after confirmed infection. There was significant recovery from long COVID symptoms using HBOT.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Improve Post Concussion Syndrome Years after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury - Randomized Prospective Trial
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death and disability in the US. Approximately 70-90% of the TBI cases are classified as mild, and up to 25% of them will not recover and suffer chronic neurocognitive impairments. The main pathology in these cases involves diffuse brain injuries, which are hard to detect by anatomical imaging yet noticeable in metabolic imaging. The current study tested the effectiveness of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) in improving brain function and quality of life in mTBI patients suffering chronic neurocognitive impairments.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Alzheimer's dementia with positron emission tomography imaging a case report
The prevalence12 and costs2 of dementia, of which Alzheimer’s dementia (AD)3 is the dominant subtype, are substantial.3 AD is characterized by deficits in memory and executive function.4 Treatments have focused on pharmacotherapy,5 but from 2002–2012 the US Food and Drug Administration has cleared only 1 of 244 drugs tested6 and no therapy halts disease progression.7 The dual-drug hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)89 has many neurological applications.10 The first successful HBOT-treated case of AD was published in 2001.1112 The present case report is the first patient in a series of 11 HBOT-treated AD patients whose symptomatic improvement is documented with 18fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18FDG PET).