The Medical journal of Australia
-
A preliminary report is presented on 10 patients with spinal cord injuries who were treated with hyperbaric oxygen. The results suggest that by supporting injured spinal cord tissue with oxygen under pressure, improvement in nerve function may occur. No deterioration of motor power or sensation was evident during or after hyperbaric oxygen treatment in any of these patients. The possible contribution of ischaemia to the pathology of spinal cord injury should encourage further experimental research and clinical trials with hyperbaric oxygen.
-
Clinical assessment of a regime of hyperbaric oxygen within 12 hours of acute spinal injury in humans suggests that further study of this method of treatment is indicated. For statistical proof of the efficacy of this form of treatment study of a large number of patients is necessary and an Australia-wide study is suggested. A recommendation is made for early referral to the spinal unit.