Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is characterized by changes that occur when a particular area of the brain is struck, penetrated or pierced. The site of injury may determine what kinds of physical, mental, or behavioral changes are likely to occur as a result of the damage. Possible ramifications include loss of speech, memory, mobility, motor control and consciousness.

                       

Injury to the brain is compounded by swelling around the site of the initial injury (“cascade effect”). Extensive swelling within 48 hours may result in additional long-term disabilities.                   

 

Hyperbaric Oxygenation (HBO) for acute TBI:

                                               

·    Provides oxygen to brain tissues even in absence of red blood cells

·  Relieves brain edema

·  Mitigates the “cascade effect”

·  Helps restore the blood-brain barrier

·  Inhibits reperfusion injury

·  Prevents injury to DNA

  

Animal models that had an acute brain injury with global ischemia were given a single HBO treatment within hours of injury. Studies showed a marked decrease in damage to the brain.

 

HBO as an adjunct therapy for chronic TBI:

                                                    

·  Reduces edema even years after injury

·  Energizes cells surrounding the ischemia (area of restriction in blood flow)

·  Promotes capillary (blood vessel) growth

·  Promotes normal molecular-level chemical reactions necessary for brain function

                                                                  

Patients/caregivers have reported:      

 

·  Decreased spasticity

·  Increased concentration

·  Improved vision

·  Improved bowel/bladder function

·  Increased mobility and stamina

·  Reduced need of certain medications

 

 

Suggested treatment schedule:

 

One to two daily treatments, five days/week for a total of 40 treatments as the base therapy, with booster sessions as needed. May require long-term commitment and multiple sessions.  Individual responses vary.