Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: A Literature Review and the Rationale for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Central retinal artery occlusion is visually devastating and has no proven treatments. The therapeutic interval between symptom onset and potentially sight-saving intervention is narrow. Traditional conservative approaches include digital massage, administration of systemic vasodilators and diuretics, and lowering of intraocular pressure. Systemic and targeted fibrinolytic therapy is under investigation but is associated with significant adverse reactions. We report a case in which hyperbaric oxygen therapy restored retinal perfusion, and the patient's vision was improved.