What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed outcomes for 19 patients treated with HBOT for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) at a tertiary hearing center between 2018 and 2021, examining whether pre-existing health conditions affected recovery.
What They Found
Patients received an average of 13 HBOT sessions starting 34.2 days after hearing loss onset. Pure tone averages improved significantly (50.3 dB before vs. 36.0 dB after, p<0.01) and word discrimination scores improved (73% vs. 79%, p<0.05). Of those who reported clinical improvement, 57% met criteria for complete recovery. Patients with rheumatologic disorders were less likely to respond.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadians who experience sudden unexplained hearing loss, a medical emergency requiring same-week treatment, this study reinforces that HBOT as an add-on to steroids can meaningfully improve hearing outcomes. Starting HBOT promptly within the first few weeks is important, as delays reduce the chance of recovery.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified. Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is not currently an OHIP-covered HBOT indication in Ontario.
Study Limitations
With only 19 patients, no control group, and no randomization, it is difficult to separate HBOT's benefit from the natural partial recovery that occurs in some SSHL patients without any treatment.