What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial to investigate hyperbaric oxygen therapy for persistent post-concussive symptoms after mild traumatic brain injury in military personnel.
What They Found
The study randomized 71 military personnel between September 2012 and May 2014, with a median age of 33 years and 99% male participants. Baseline data showed 49% of participants had a post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis, 32% sustained blast injuries, and 73% experienced multiple injuries.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
As this study describes the design and baseline characteristics of a trial investigating hyperbaric oxygen for mild traumatic brain injury, it does not yet offer direct treatment guidance for Canadian patients. However, if future results demonstrate efficacy, this therapy could potentially offer a new treatment option for Canadians experiencing persistent post-concussive symptoms.
Canadian Relevance
This study was sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A key limitation of this manuscript is that it only describes the study design and baseline characteristics, with primary results still pending.