What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a randomised, sham-controlled, double-blind trial with 60 post-COVID-19 patients to evaluate the effect of 40 daily hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions on cardiac function.
What They Found
At baseline, 29 (48.3%) patients had reduced global longitudinal strain (GLS). Following hyperbaric oxygen therapy, GLS significantly increased from -17.8 ± 1.1 to -20.2 ± 1.0 (p = 0.0001) in the HBOT group compared to the sham group, indicating improved left ventricular systolic function. This improvement showed a significant group-by-time interaction (p = 0.041).
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection. However, the findings are relevant globally as post-COVID-19 syndrome affects patients worldwide, including in Canada.
Study Limitations
The study's limitations include the need for further research to optimize patient selection and evaluate the long-term outcomes of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.