The Robert M. Lombard Hyperbaric Oxygenation Medical Center, Inc.

Cerebral Vascular Accident: Stroke
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Stroke (Cerebral Vascular Accident or CVA) is defined as a sudden onset of a neurological deficit such as a weakness or paralysis due to a disturbance of the blood flow to the brain. 

 

There are four types of strokes which result in the cessation of, or reduction in, blood flow, oxygen and glucose, critical for brain function:

 

1.     Ischemic:  blood clot blocks an artery

2.     Cerebral infarction:  obstruction to venous outflow from the brain

3.     Hemorrhagic: rupture of an aneurysm

4.     Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): loss of function or sensation that lasts for less than 24 hours

 

Hyperbaric oxygenation (HBOT) for acute stroke:

 

·   Provides oxygen to brain tissues even in absence of blood flow

·   Relieves initial and secondary brain swelling

·   Improves metabolism of neurons

·   Increases oxygen to viable cells surrounding the area of ischemia (damage)

·   Provides the oxygen necessary to metabolize glucose which provides energy for all cells

·   Helps maintain chemical reactions involved in production of brain neurotransmitters.

 

Hyperbaric oxygenation is not a cure for chronic stroke, but is used as an adjunct therapy. Clinical outcomes are improved in the treatment of new strokes, those 3 months old or less. However, improvements have been noted years after the CVA.

 

Patients/caregivers have reported:

 

·   Reduction in spasticity (if treated within 3 months of initial episode, spasticity may not develop)

·   Increased mental performance and awareness

·   Increased stamina and strength

·   Recovery of function to some degree

 

Physical therapy is recommended during HBOT.

 

Suggested treatment schedule:

 

One to two daily treatments, five days/week for a total of 30-40 treatments is the usual base protocol, with booster sessions as needed. Individual responses vary.

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Testimonial

 

My wife Joanne had a brain aneurysm in 1997. After the clipping of the aneurysm, Joanne suffered two strokes from the vaso-spasms post operation. Her strokes affected both her motor and communication skills, which left her with a great deal of muscle spasticity and the inability to express herself verbally. After the first 40 hours of hyperbaric treatment, Joanne started to develop trunk control and her communication skills improved.

 

The major stroke affected her right side. Just this past January 2005, Joanne was able to scratch her nose with her right hand and she continues to build strength in her right leg. Joanne’s progress is slow but with monthly hyperbaric treatments she continues to make small strides in her recovery.

 

Joseph W.

 

 

I have been going to the Lombard HBOT Med Center for stroke recovery for 22.5 hours of treatment.

 

Since starting treatment I have seen improvements in my walking, less spasticity

in my leg and arm and greater range of motion with less stiffness and less soreness.

 

I would recommend that anyone who is recovering from a stroke should receive HBOT.

 

The Lombard HBOT Medical Center is an excellent facility with a very friendly and competent staff.

 

Sincerely,

Daniel M.