What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a multicenter observational study testing the safety and feasibility of HBOT (40 to 82 sessions at 1.5 ATA for one hour each) in 32 patients with chronic post-concussive symptoms from mild traumatic brain injury, measuring neurocognitive outcomes.
What They Found
Subjects showed improvement in 21 of 25 neurocognitive test measures. Objective cognitive test components improved in 13 of 17 measures. Earlier treatment after injury, younger age, military status, and more HBOT sessions were all associated with better outcomes. No adverse events were reported.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Mild TBI and post-concussion syndrome affect Canadian athletes, veterans, and motor vehicle accident victims. This study adds to accumulating evidence that HBOT can meaningfully improve cognitive function even years after brain injury, with more sessions producing better results. The safety record was excellent.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
This was a small, non-randomized observational study with no control group; the absence of a sham condition means placebo effects cannot be ruled out.