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[Hyperbaric oxygen treatment for children with cerebral palsy]

O Papazian1, I Alfonso

  • 1Departamento de Neurología, Centro de Espasticidad y Movimientos Involuntarios, Miami Children's Hospital, Florida 33155, USA. oscar.papazian@mch.com

Revista De Neurologia
|October 9, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Hyperbaric oxygenation (HO) is not scientifically proven for children with cerebral palsy (CP). While some studies showed improvements, these were attributed to participation effects, and risks like barometric otitis media exist.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics
  • Diving Medicine

Context:

  • Parental demand has driven the rapid growth of hyperbaric oxygenation (HO) as a therapy for children with cerebral palsy (CP).
  • Existing literature on HO for pediatric CP is limited, necessitating a review of peer-reviewed articles to assess efficacy and risks.
  • The review covers studies published between 1996 and 2003, indexed in MEDLINE via PubMed, focusing on cerebral palsy and hyperbaric oxygenation.

Purpose:

  • To critically evaluate the scientific evidence for the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygenation (HO) in treating children with cerebral palsy (CP).
  • To identify and assess the potential risks and side effects associated with HO therapy in pediatric CP patients.
  • To provide an evidence-based perspective on the widespread use of HO for CP in children.

Summary:

  • A literature search identified 16 references, including one randomized controlled study, pilot studies, and case reports.
  • The controlled study found no significant differences between hyperbaric oxygenation and placebo groups in gross motor function, self-control, attention, or memory.
  • Reported side effects included barometric otitis media in both groups, with higher incidence in the HO group. Positive results were attributed to a participation effect.

Impact:

  • Current scientific evidence does not support the use of hyperbaric oxygenation for children with cerebral palsy.
  • The study highlights the risk of barometric otitis media as a significant side effect of hyperbaric oxygenation.
  • Recommendations discourage the informal and widespread use of HO for pediatric CP due to lack of proven benefit and potential harm.
Abstract

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