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Hyperbaric Oxygen and Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Isaac L Alter1, Mickie Hamiter1,2, Jiying Han3
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.
The Laryngoscope
|August 1, 2025
Summary
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) combined with medical therapy significantly improves hearing recovery in sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) patients. This meta-analysis confirms HBOT
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) presents a significant clinical challenge with profound impacts on affected individuals.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a potential treatment for SSNHL, but its efficacy remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the existing evidence on the effectiveness of HBOT in treating SSNHL.
- To assess the impact of HBOT, alone or in combination with other therapies, on hearing recovery in SSNHL patients.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Clinicaltrials.gov) up to May 7, 2025.
- Data extraction and screening were performed independently by two investigators following PRISMA guidelines.
- A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) for hearing recovery.
Main Results:
- Twenty studies, including 16 RCTs and 4 non-randomized prospective studies, involving 1087 patients receiving HBOT and 600 receiving medical therapy (MT) alone were analyzed.
- Meta-analysis of ten studies revealed that patients receiving HBOT plus MT had 2.61 times higher odds of hearing recovery compared to MT alone (95% CI 1.86-3.68, p < 0.001).
- Subgroup analyses demonstrated significantly higher odds of hearing recovery with HBOT when combined with systemic steroids (OR 2.54) or systemic and intratympanic steroids (OR 2.64).
Conclusions:
- Combining HBOT with medical therapy appears to be beneficial for hearing recovery in individuals diagnosed with SSNHL.
- Further research is recommended to standardize treatment protocols and improve data reporting for more conclusive findings on HBOT efficacy in SSNHL.
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