Summary of Study
The case report, “Low pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy and SPECT brain imaging in the treatment of blast-induced chronic traumatic brain injury (post-concussion syndrome) and post traumatic stress disorder”, explores the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on a military veteran suffering from chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aimed to assess whether low-pressure hyperbaric therapy could improve neurological function and relieve PTSD symptoms in individuals with these conditions. Using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging, the researchers measured brain blood flow changes before and after a series of HBOT sessions.
Methodology
The subject, a 25-year-old male veteran, experienced post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and PTSD following an explosion during combat. He underwent 39 hyperbaric oxygen treatments at 1.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA) over 26 days, with each session lasting 60 minutes. These treatments were administered in a monoplace hyperbaric chamber delivering 100% oxygen. SPECT brain imaging was conducted both before and 72 hours after the final treatment to evaluate changes in cerebral blood flow, providing insight into the potential physiological impact of hyperbaric therapy on brain recovery.
Post HBOT SPECT brain scan three dimensional surface reconstruction and processed transverse images Note relative improvement in brain blood flow to bilateral focal frontal and temporal defects and overall normalization of blood flow to a more homogeneous pattern 
Pre HBOT SPECT brain scan three dimensional surface reconstruction and processed transverse images Note bilateral orbital frontal and temporal lobe defects and diffuse heterogeneous pattern of blood flow
Results
Following the course of HBOT, the patient reported significant improvements in his PCS and PTSD symptoms. Notably, his chronic headaches, tinnitus, and sleep disturbances were markedly reduced, and he experienced a complete resolution of PTSD symptoms by the 25th session. Neurological exams demonstrated improved motor function and balance, and SPECT imaging showed enhanced blood flow in both frontal and temporal brain regions, which were previously impaired. The patient remained symptom-free in these areas for eight months post-treatment and was able to sustain employment consistently.
Conclusion
This case suggests that low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be a promising treatment for individuals with combined diagnoses of blast-induced TBI/PCS and PTSD. The therapy’s ability to improve brain blood flow and reduce symptoms highlights its potential as a novel approach to managing the overlapping challenges of TBI and PTSD in veterans. By enhancing blood flow and promoting brain healing, hyperbaric therapy may provide relief where traditional treatments for these conditions fall short, offering a pathway toward recovery and improved quality of life for those affected by combat-related brain injuries.
Source:
Harch, P.G., Fogarty, P.G., Staab, P.K. et al. Low pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy and SPECT brain imaging in the treatment of blast-induced chronic traumatic brain injury (post-concussion syndrome) and post traumatic stress disorder: a case report. Cases Journal 2, 6538 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1186/1757-1626-0002-0000006538