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[Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in retinal artery occlusion]
S Aisenbrey1, R Krott, R Heller
1Abteilung für Netzhaut- und Glaskörperchirurgie, Universitäts-Augenklinik Köln.
Summary
Adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) shows promise for improving visual acuity (VA) in patients with branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO). Further research is needed to confirm these findings for retinal artery occlusion (RAO).
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Hyperbaric Medicine
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Retinal artery occlusion (RAO) is a critical condition leading to significant vision loss.
- Prompt intervention is crucial for managing RAO and preserving visual function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) in improving visual acuity (VA) for patients experiencing acute retinal artery occlusion (RAO).
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving patients with central or branch RAO (CRAO/BRAO).
- Patients received standard therapy (ocular massage, paracentesis, acetazolamide) with or without adjunctive HBO.
- Visual acuity was assessed using ETDRS guidelines over a 3-month follow-up period.
Main Results:
- In CRAO cases, HBO therapy resulted in a mean VA increase of 1 line, with 50% of patients experiencing improvement of 2 lines or more.
- For BRAO cases, HBO therapy led to a significant mean VA increase of 8 lines, with 80% of patients showing improvement of 2 lines or more.
- Control groups (without HBO) showed less pronounced VA improvements for both CRAO and BRAO.
Conclusions:
- Adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) appears to be a beneficial treatment for improving visual acuity (VA) in patients with branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO).
- Further extensive clinical trials are warranted to validate these preliminary findings and establish definitive treatment protocols for RAO.