Description

ABSTRACT

Jusoh AF, Ismail I, Yahaya R, Hassan A, Yusoff HM. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Traumatic Brain

Injury: A Comprehensive Structure Review. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2026 First Quarter; 53(1):65-82.

Introduction: Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) treatment has sparked increasing attention as a potential

therapeutic intervention for traumatic brain injury (TBI), but the variability in findings necessitates a

comprehensive analysis of recent literature. This review aims to evaluate the latest empirical evidence on

the effectiveness of HBO2 treatment for TBI, focusing on its impact on neurological recovery, cognitive

function, and physiological markers.

Methods: To achieve this, we extensively searched scholarly articles in reputable databases such as

Scopus and Web of Science (WoS), focusing on studies published between 2015 and 2024, and followed

the PRISMA framework for study selection. The final dataset comprised 74 cases (n=74) and was

analyzed using both quantitative methods (descriptive statistics) and qualitative techniques (thematic

analysis). The findings were divided into three themes: (1) clinical efficacy of HBO2 treatment for TBI,

(2) mechanisms of action and biological pathways in HBO2 treatment, and (3) evolving therapeutic

applications of HBO2 in TBI.

Results: Mixed outcomes; while some studies reported significant cognitive, physiological, and clinical

improvements, others raised concerns about methodological variability and limited reproducibility.

Mechanistic studies highlighted HBO2's role in modulating pathways such as TLR4/NF-κB and VEGF/ERK,

facilitating neuroprotection, angiogenesis, and synaptogenesis. Emerging therapies combining HBO2

with regenerative approaches, such as stem cell treatments, showed promise in enhancing recovery.

Discussion: In conclusion, HBO2 treatment demonstrates clinical efficacy in improving memory, executive

function, and neuroprotection, particularly in the treatment of post-concussive symptoms. Mechanistic

studies highlight its role in reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress while promoting

neurogenesis and angiogenesis. However, standardized protocols and long-term follow-up are needed to

confirm its full therapeutic potential in TBI management.

Keywords: Hyperbaric oxygen treatment; HBO2 treatment; hyperbaric research; traumatic brain injury; trauma

DOI: 10.22464/799