What Researchers Did
Researchers retrospectively analyzed 62,614 hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions in 2,334 patients to determine the incidence of seizures, including in those with chronic neurological disorders.
What They Found
The overall incidence of seizures during hyperbaric sessions was 0.011% (1:8,945), occurring in seven (0.3%) patients. Only one patient experienced a clear oxygen toxicity-induced seizure, resulting in an overall incidence of 1:62,614.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study suggests that seizures during hyperbaric oxygen therapy are extremely rare, even for patients with chronic neurological conditions. Patients undergoing this treatment can be reassured by the low risk of seizure events.
Canadian Relevance
This study was conducted in Israel and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a retrospective analysis, this study relied on existing medical records, which may have introduced limitations regarding data completeness or specific patient characteristics.