Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 7, 2025
08:20
Simultaneous Application of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation during Virtual Reality Exposure
Published on: January 18, 2021
3.9K
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Veterans With Combat-Associated Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Randomized,
Keren Doenyas-Barak1,2,3, Ilan Kutz1, Erez Lang1,2
1Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Research, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|November 20, 2024
Summary
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) significantly improved combat-associated posttraumatic stress disorder (CA-PTSD) symptoms in veterans. This clinical improvement correlated with enhanced brain connectivity, suggesting HBOT as a viable treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Hyperbaric Medicine
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly impacts veterans' quality of life.
- Emerging evidence suggests hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may offer neuroplastic benefits for PTSD.
- A randomized, sham-controlled trial was needed to rigorously evaluate HBOT for combat-associated PTSD (CA-PTSD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of a dedicated HBOT protocol in improving clinical symptoms of CA-PTSD in male veterans.
- To investigate the neurobiological underpinnings of HBOT's effects using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI).
- To determine if HBOT leads to significant reductions in PTSD symptom severity compared to a sham intervention.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, sham-controlled trial involving male veterans (aged 25-60) diagnosed with CA-PTSD.
- Participants received 60 daily sessions of either HBOT (100% oxygen at 2 ATA) or a sham intervention.
- Symptom severity (CAPS-5), depression (BDI-II), anxiety, and stress (DASS-21) were assessed, alongside rsfMRI for brain connectivity analysis.
Main Results:
- The HBOT group showed a significant reduction in CAPS-5 scores (P<.001), unlike the sham group which saw an increase.
- Significant improvements were observed in depression scores (DASS-21 depression domain, BDI-II) for the HBOT group (P=.03, P=.04).
- rsfMRI revealed enhanced functional connectivity in key brain networks (default-mode, central-executive, salience) in the HBOT group compared to sham.
Conclusions:
- A specific HBOT protocol effectively alleviates PTSD symptoms in veterans with CA-PTSD.
- The observed clinical benefits of HBOT are associated with measurable improvements in brain functional connectivity.
- HBOT presents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing CA-PTSD, supported by both clinical and neuroimaging data.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:27Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
29
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises following exposure to traumatic events such as natural disasters, forced displacement, or severe accidents. It significantly impairs individuals' ability to cope with daily activities and disrupts their emotional and psychological equilibrium.
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events,...
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events,...
29
01:16Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure
172
Oxygen therapy has emerged as a significant tool in enhancing the quality of life for patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). While this therapy has principally been studied on patients with significant hypoxemia, this therapeutic approach helps prevent potential organ damage and can be administered in the comfort of one's home.
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue,...
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue,...
172
01:16Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
350
Oxygen therapy is a pivotal aspect of medical care, particularly for patients with respiratory ailments. Two prominent oxygen-delivering systems include the Venturi mask and the transtracheal oxygen catheter.
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
350
01:27Pneumothorax-II
120
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
120
01:26Flail Chest-II
160
Managing flail chest, a condition characterized by a segment of the chest wall moving independently from the rest of the thoracic cage, requires a comprehensive approach. It includes a thorough assessment of the patient's condition, a diagnostic evaluation to determine the extent of the injury, and the implementation of appropriate medical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
160
01:25Hyperpnea and Hyperventilation
978
Hyperventilation refers to a higher-than-normal rate and depth of breathing, often associated with anxiety attacks. This excessive breathing surpasses the body's need to expel CO2, leading to a condition known as hypocapnia - an unusually low level of carbon dioxide in the blood. Hypocapnia can constrict cerebral blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the brain, which may result in dizziness or fainting. Early signs include tingling and muscle spasms in the hands and face, caused by falling...
978