What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 randomised controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for patients with cerebral palsy.
What They Found
This meta-analysis of 2,146 participants found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly improved gross motor functions, with a standardised mean difference of 0.29 (95% CI [0.07-0.51]) for GMFM and a mean difference of -0.40 (95% CI [-0.52 to -0.27]) for GMFCS. It also enhanced global developmental level (RR 1.30, 95% CI [1.19-1.42] for Gesell; MD 8.25, 95% CI [6.48-10.01] for developmental quotient) and language expression (MD 4.34, 95% CI [2.30...]).
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study's limitations include potential heterogeneity among the included trials and the ongoing controversy regarding HBO's overall efficacy and safety.