HBOT for Veterans with Brain Injuries: Study Shows 46% Symptom Improvement and Enhanced Brain Function

A recent case series examined the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in 39 U.S. veterans suffering from persistent symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). After completing 40 HBOT sessions at 1.5 ATA, participants showed significant improvements in both brain perfusion (measured by SPECT imaging) and overall symptom reduction—including improved sleep, mood, and pain levels. On average, veterans reported a 46.6% improvement in symptoms.

Study Overview

• Title: A Case Series of 39 United States Veterans with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

  
  

• Quick Summary: This case series followed 39 U.S. veterans with chronic mTBI who completed a short-term HBOT program. Before and after brain scans showed better blood flow to the brain, and most participants reported improved symptoms, including reduced pain and better sleep.

  
  

• Key Findings:

  • Brain perfusion improved significantly on SPECT scans (p < 0.001)

  • Participants reported an average 46.6% improvement in symptoms

  • Common improvements included better sleep, mood, and less pain

    
    

• Study Details:

  • Sample Size: 39 veterans (36 men, 3 women; ages 28–69)

  • Treatment Protocol:

    • 40 HBOT sessions

    • 90 minutes per session at 1.5 ATA, 100% oxygen

    • Delivered twice daily over 20 weekdays

  • Outcome Measures:

    • SPECT brain imaging (pre- and post-treatment)

    • Multi-symptom self-reports

      
      

• Year Published: 2022

  
  

• Where Published: Medicines (MDPI)

Learn More

Read Full Study on MDPI