What Researchers Did
The researchers reviewed patient medical records and correspondence to identify cases of acute and chronic central nervous system oxygen toxicity during hyperbaric oxygen therapy for neurological conditions.
What They Found
The study identified 7 acute cases of central nervous system oxygen toxicity, occurring within 5 HBOT sessions at an average of 4.0 atmosphere-hours (AHs). They also found 52 chronic cases, with 31 occurring at 1.5 ATA (average 116 AHs), 12 at >1.5 ATA (103 AHs), and 9 at <1.5 ATA (114 AHs). Most of these oxygen toxicity cases were reversible, and there was no significant difference between adults and children.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified. The study authors are not Canadian, and the research does not specifically cover Health Canada-recognised indications for HBOT.
Study Limitations
This study was a retrospective review of medical records and patient correspondence, which may be subject to reporting bias and lack standardised data collection.