Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Background. Survival rates after acute brain injury have improved, but persistent coma continues to be a major clinical problem. Objective. We analyzed changes in cerebral perfusion after treatment with right median nerve stimulation (MNS) or MNS with hyperbaric oxygen (MNS + HBO), two noninvasive therapies that have shown promise in this patient population. Methods. During the period this series of patients was treated, decision-makers were offered the option of MNS for six weeks (continued for maximum of three months if patient responded) or MNS + HBO (HBO given during the first six weeks of MNS). ⋯ Multivariate analysis indicated that MNS + HBO was significantly related to increased cerebral perfusion compared with MNS alone (odds ratio = 8.44, 95% confidence intervals: 1.34-52.97). Conclusion. The combination of MNS + HBO is more likely to result in improved cerebral perfusion than MNS alone. Randomized prospective trials evaluating MNS, especially with adjunct HBO, are needed to clarify clinical indications and most effective treatment schemes.