What Researchers Did
Researchers combined results from multiple randomized trials to see whether adding hyperbaric oxygen therapy to standard steroid treatment helps people recover hearing after sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
What They Found
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials with 794 participants found that combining hyperbaric oxygen therapy with systemic corticosteroids significantly improved low-frequency hearing thresholds (standardized mean difference: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.66-1.00, p less than 0.0001) and increased the odds of complete hearing recovery (odds ratio: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.41-2.98, p equals 0.0002) compared with corticosteroids alone. However, the studies showed significant heterogeneity (I squared equals 96.7%) and variation in treatment protocols. Mild adverse events, including vertigo, were reported. The authors note that high heterogeneity and a lack of statistical significance in the random-effects model call for cautious interpretation of these findings.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
The meta-analysis showed very high heterogeneity between included trials (I squared equals 96.7%) and variation in treatment protocols, and the authors themselves state that the lack of statistical significance in the random-effects model calls for cautious interpretation, with well-designed, standardized RCTs still needed to confirm the findings.