What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials comparing HBOT versus normobaric oxygen for neuropsychological dysfunction after CO poisoning.
What They Found
Patients treated with HBOT had lower rates of headache, memory impairment, difficulty concentrating, and disturbed sleep compared to those treated with normobaric oxygen alone, though the differences did not individually reach statistical significance. Two sessions of HBOT showed no advantage over one session.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
CO poisoning is an OHIP-covered indication for HBOT in Ontario. This meta-analysis suggests that a single HBOT session may be sufficient for most CO poisoning patients -- an important practical consideration for Canadian centers where HBOT resources are limited. Patients with severe presentations should still receive multiple sessions.
Canadian Relevance
Carbon monoxide poisoning is an OHIP-covered indication for HBOT in Ontario.
Study Limitations
This meta-analysis pooled only 6 trials with varying protocols and patient severity; heterogeneity between studies limits the strength of conclusions.