What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed existing literature on hyperbaric oxygen therapy and cerebral ischaemia to identify neuroprotective mechanisms.
What They Found
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy demonstrated protective effects in numerous animal models of ischaemic brain injury, including focal and global cerebral ischaemia. While small human trials for focal ischaemia showed no benefit, one human trial before cardiopulmonary bypass improved neuropsychological and inflammatory outcomes. The therapy is associated with improved cerebral oxygenation, reduced inflammation, and decreased apoptotic cell death.
Canadian Relevance
This review article has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A key limitation is the reliance on animal models, as small human trials for focal ischaemia have not yet demonstrated clinical benefit.