Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) persistent post-concussion syndrome (PPCS) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are epi-
demic in United States Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans. Treatment of the combined diagnoses is limited. The aim of this study is
to assess safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen treatments (HBOT) for mild TBI PPCS and PTSD. Thirty military
subjects aged 18–65 with PPCS with or without PTSD and from one or more blast-induced mild-moderate traumatic brain injuries
that were a minimum of 1 year old and occurred after 9/11/2001 were studied. The measures included symptom lists, physical exam,
neuropsychological and psychological testing on 29 subjects (1 dropout) and SPECT brain imaging pre and post HBOT. Comparison
was made using SPECT imaging on 29 matched Controls. Side effects (30 subjects) experienced due to the HBOT: reversible middle
ear barotrauma (n = 6), transient deterioration in symptoms (n = 7), reversible bronchospasm (n = 1), and increased anxiety (n = 2;
not related to confinement); unrelated to HBOT: ureterolithiasis (n = 1), chest pain (n = 2). Significant improvement (29 subjects) was
seen in neurological exam, symptoms, intelligence quotient, memory, measures of attention, dominant hand motor speed and dexter-
ity, quality of life, general anxiety, PTSD, depression (including reduction in suicidal ideation), and reduced psychoactive medication
usage. At 6-month follow-up subjects reported further symptomatic improvement. Compared to Controls the subjects’ SPECT was
significantly abnormal, significantly improved after 1 and 40 treatments, and became statistically indistinguishable from Controls in
75% of abnormal areas. HBOT was found to be safe and significantly effective for veterans with mild to moderate TBI PPCS with
PTSD in all four outcome domains: clinical medicine, neuropsychology, psychology, and SPECT imaging. Veterans also experienced
a significant reduction in suicidal ideation and reduction in psychoactive medication use.
Key words: hyperbaric oxygen; traumatic brain injury; persistent post concussion syndrome; post traumatic stress disorder; single
photon emission computed tomography; cognitive assessment; brain injury treatment; combat veterans
doi: 10.4103/2045-9912.215745
How to cite this article: Harch PG, Andrews SR, Fogarty EF, Lucarini J, Van Meter KW. Case control study: hyperbaric oxygen treatment
of mild traumatic brain injury persistent post-concussion syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder. Med Gas Res. 2017;7(3):156-174.
Funding: The Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation, The Semper Fi Fund, The Coalition to Salute Americas Heroes, John and
Resa Wing, the Harch Hyperbaric Research Fund of the Baromedical Research Institute of New Orleans, Frederick Lowther, Mr. Chris
Anderson of the Van Kampen Foundation, Stanley Horton, John Staley IV, N.Y. Community Trust, Louis and Candace Hughes Trust,
James Rooney, Marshall Wallach, Mr. Poindexter, Richard and Meg Lyon, The Sutton Foundation, The Caulkins Family, George Wood,
Mr. Caleb Gates, New Orleans Natural Resource Group, Rubie and Bryan Bell, Margaret Hoffmann, John and Virginia Weinmann,
Peter Roy Carney, John Fox, Dr. Warren Thomas, Joan C. White, James Wallace, Isabel Sanders, Edgar Jannotta, Thomas Petrie, Health
Freedom Foundation, Tim and Libby Brown Foundation, Lisa Ethier, Operation Homefront Louisiana, Mr. Theodore Solomon, and
Shoney’s Restaurant (Gretna, LA). Twenty-five doses of the SPECT agent Ethyl Cysteinate Dimer were donated by Dupont Merck
Pharma Radiopharmaceuticals, North Billerica, MA, USA for use in LSU IRB #3511, Tc99m ECD SPECT Brain Imaging in Neuro-
logically Normal Individuals and Neurologically and Cognitively Abnormal Nitrogen Tetroxide Exposed Patients.
board approved pilot study. The original design was for 15 phone questionnaire. Subject flow is shown in Figure 1.
active duty or retired military service members with mild-
moderate blast TBI PPCS and 15 service members with Subjects
mild-moderate TBI PPCS and PTSD. Early recruitment There were 30 active duty or retired military service men
was dominated by patients with the combined diagnoses so and women (18–65 years old) with one or more mild-to-
the study design was changed to recruitment of the first 30 moderate blast TBIs characterized by loss of conscious-
subjects with either PPCS or PPCS with PTSD. The final ness that were a minimum of 1 year old and occurred after
treated subject cohort was matched to a group of anony- 9/11/01. All subjects were diagnosed by military or civilian
mized SPECT imaged population controls from a previous specialists with chronic TBI/PPCS or TBI/PPCS/PTSD.
study (unpublished data). Loss of consciousness (LOC) was estimated by each patient
The study methods were described in a previous report.27 and the principal investigator (P.I.) based on patient recol-
Subjects were screened, enrolled, examined, completed lection, details of the event, and bystander reports to patient.
symptom questionnaires, neuropsychological and psycho- When anterograde memory loss exceeded 30 minutes, could
logical testing, and SPECT imaged before and after the first not be distinguished from LOC, and medical records were
HBOT and then within 5 days after the full series of twice not available subjects were deemed moderate TBI. Prior
a day, 5 days per week HBOTs at 152 kPa/60 minutes. Six diagnoses of TBI/PPCS and PTSD were confirmed or refuted
months following the 40th HBOT, subjects responded to a by using clinical interviews, symptom lists, the Rivermead
Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire33 (PCS; > 3 on
at least 3 questions),34 the PTSD Checklist-Military35 (total
Screening (1 day)
> 50),1 and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-IV Text Re-
(1–4 weeks) vised (DSM-IV TR) criteria for the diagnoses.36 All subjects
and population Normals gave informed consent under ap-
Enrollment, history, physical exam (1 day) proval of the Louisiana State University Institutional Re-
view Board, LSU IRB #7051 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
(1–3 days)
NCT00760734) and LSU IRB #3511, respectively.
Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing (1 day)
The DSM-IV-TR criteria used for diagnosis of PPCS was:
1) a history of head trauma that has caused significant
cerebral concussion;
SPECT brain imaging (1 day) 2) evidence from neuropsychological testing or quantified
cognitive assessment of difficulty in attention (concentrat-
ing, shifting focus of attention, performing simultaneous
cognitive tasks), or memory (learning or recalling infor-
First HBOT, followed 3–4 hours later by
repeat SPECT brain imaging (1 day) mation);
3) three or more of the following occur shortly after the
trauma and last at least 3 months: a) Becoming fatigued
39 additional HBOTs, twice a day, 5 easily, b) Disordered sleep, c) Headache, d) Vertigo or diz-
days per week (~30 calendar days) ziness, e) Irritability or aggression with little or no provoca-
tion, f) Anxiety, depression, or affective lability, g) Changes
in personality (e.g., social or sexual inappropriateness), h)
History and physical exam (1 day) Apathy or lack of spontaneity;
4) the symptoms in criteria 2) and 3) have their onset fol-
lowing head trauma or else represent a substantial worsen-
Neuropsychological and psychological testing (1 day)
ing of pre-existing symptoms;
5) the disturbance causes significant impairment in social
or occupational functioning and represents a significant
decline from a previous level of functioning (in school-aged
SPECT brain imaging (1 day)
children, the impairment may be manifested by a significant
worsening in school or academic performance dating from
(6 months)
the trauma);
Telephone questionnaire/follow-up 6) the symptoms do not meet criteria for dementia due
to head trauma and are not better accounted for by another
Figure 1: Flow chart of the study.
mental disorder (e.g., amnestic disorder due to head trauma, Memory Index (the first 5 subjects were tested with the
personality change due to head trauma).36 WAIS III, after which the newly issued WAIS IV was used
Exclusion Criteria: Subjects with significant pulmonary for the remaining 26 subjects).
disease, medical co-morbidities with significant risk for
HBOT or that confounded testing, claustrophobia, pre- SPECT brain blood flow imaging
morbid neurological diagnoses, and substance abuse were Subjects underwent SPECT brain blood flow imaging
excluded. Subjects were counseled to give maximal effort on a Picker Prism 3000 XP Triple-Head gamma camera
and effort-tested pre-HBOT, but those who scored below system (Cleveland, Ohio, USA) before, within 3–4 hours
accepted cutoffs were not excluded from the study. Bron- after the first HBOT, and within five days after the 40th
chospasm unresponsive to medication was the sole criteria HBOT. Acquisition, processing, and formatting were previ-
for subject removal. ously described.27 Control subjects were imaged between
1998 and 2002 under identical conditions with the same
Symptom scoring radiopharmaceutical/dose in the same nuclear medicine
Patient-prioritized symptoms and symptoms from the department on an earlier model Picker Prism 3000 XP
P.I.’s standard questionnaire27 (Additional Table 1) were Triple-Head gamma camera system. The raw data from
their scans was re-processed and re-formatted by the same
recorded pre-treatment and scored by the subject after the
technologist in identical fashion to treated subjects using
last HBOT as “better” (improved), “worse” (deteriorated),
the software on the later model Picker XP.
or “same” (no change). Six months following the last
HBOT subjects were queried by phone about the status
SPECT texture analysis
of all symptoms as “better, worse, or same” compared to Transverse processed images were analyzed with open
pre-HBOT and post-40 HBOTs. source DICOM software package OsirixTM, using a first
order texture analysis of count histograms54 to register
Psychometric testing improvements in heterogeneity of blood flow55 seen in
Outcome variables are listed in Additional Table 1 and in- previously treated chronic TBI subjects.15 Mean counts/
clude: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV Full Scale IQ pixel (MCP), standard deviation of counts/pixel, and coef-
(WAIS-IV),37 Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence ficient of variation (CV) (standard deviation as a percent
(WASI),38 Wechsler Memory Scale-IV Delayed Memory of mean) of counts/pixel were measured for five gray
Index and Visual Working Memory Index (WMS-IV),39 and two white matter circular regions of interest (ROIs)
Rivermead Post Concussion Symptom Questionnaire at designated sites in each hemisphere on all three scans
(RPCSQ),33 Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA),40 the for each patient and then separately for the individual
Stroop Test,41 Finger Tapping and Grooved Pegboard scans for the Controls.27 The nuclear technologist was
Tests,42 the Paragraph memory subtest of the Rivermead not blinded to group or sequence of scans. Averages were
Behavioural Memory Test,43 PTSD Checklist-Military determined for each ROI of each measured parameter for
(PCL-M),35 the Perceived Quality of Life (PQOL),44 Gen- Control and pre-HBOT scans, compared to each other, and
eralized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7),45 the Patient’s to post-1 and post-40 HBOT scans. Statistical analysis
Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9),46 and the Percent Back To was performed as described below. A decrease in CV (im-
Normal Ratings (PBTN)47 for cognitive, emotional, and provement in texture) was the primary SPECT outcome.
physical functioning. These measures were administered
SPECT three-dimensional surface reconstruction
before and after completing the 40 HBOT treatments.
Three-dimensional reconstruction was performed by a
The Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST),48 Drug
single nuclear technologist using the method developed by
Abuse Screening Test (DAST),49 Green Word Memory Test
Picker International using Picker software whereby brain
(WMT),50 Wechsler Test of Adult Reading (WTAR),51 the
blood flow is computer indexed to frontal lobe blood flow.
Combat Experience Scale (CES),52 and the Disability Rat-
A frontal lobe surface defect was identified on a selected
ing Scale53 were administered pre-treatment only. Choice transverse slice. Processed/filtered transverse slices were
of tests was guided by past experience and the medical then featured with a 100% window such that all pixels
literature. Practice and test/retest effects were minimized render a white image. Counts were slowly subtracted
or accounted for by using alternate tests, e.g. WAIS-IV on by decreasing the window threshold until the defect was
pre-test and WASI post-test, and by including the Reli- visible as a full thickness black defect in the contour of
able Change Analysis on the WMS-IV primary outcome the cortex. As the defect emerged and was registered in
variables of Delayed Memory Index and Visual Working proper anatomic proportion to the rest of frontal cortical
Table 2: Subject and control characteristics (29 subjects) Table 3: Symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury
persistent post-concussion syndrome with or without
Item Subjects Controls P value
post-traumatic stress disorder before, immediately, and 6
Age (years) 30.4±7.5 (29) 33.6±8.3 (29) 0.133 months after treatment
29 (21–51) 34 (18–47)
Sex 1.000 6-month
Ranking of Before HBOT After HBOT follow-up
Female 2 (7%) 2 (7%) subjects’ symptoms (% of Ss (% of Ss (% of Ss
Male 27 (93%) 27 (93%) (Ss) Reporting) “Better”) “Better”)
Tobacco (Packs/day) 0.27±0.50 (29) 0.26±0.41 (29) 0.922
0 (0–2) 0 (0–1.14) (np) Thinking/cognition 100 90 96
Alcohol (drinks/day) 0.62±0.99 (29) 0.10±0.15 (29) 0.831 Low energy 100 86 93
0 (0–3) 0 (0–0.57) (np) Headache 97 93 86
Education (years) 13.02±2.01 (29) 14.06±1.86 0.041 Depression 90 92 87
12 (9 – 19) (29) (np) Mood swings 86 84 96
14 (11–17) Short-term memory 83 83 91
Handed 1.000 loss
Left 2 (7%) 2 (7%) Sleep disruption 76 73 80
Right 27 (93%) 26 (90%) Short temper 72 90 95
Unknown 1 (3%) Imbalance 69 65 88
Race 0.124
Decreased hearing 69 10 22
Asian 1 (3%) 0 (0%)
Speech problems 62 78 87
Black 1 (3%) 4 (14%)
Tinnitus 58 47 56
Hispanic 3 (11%) 0 (0%)
Photophobia 55 50 64
White 24 (83%) 25 (86%)
Paresthesias 48 57 60
Note: Numerical variables are summarized as mean and range (minimum Decreased vision 48 64 71
to maximum). A value of P < 0.05 (in bold) is considered statistically
Arthralgias 45 54 22
significant.
PTSD symptoms 34 60 75
Dizziness 34 100 100
Symptoms
Note: HBOT: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy; PTSD: post traumatic stress
Symptom outcomes immediately and 6 months post treat- disorder; “Better” means improved.
ment are reported in Table 3 (symptoms before, immediately
after, and 6 months after treatment). Dizziness, present in barotrauma (MEBT) (n = 6), five of these at the outset of
only 34% of subjects, was the most responsive of all symp- upper respiratory infections, 2) transient deterioration in
toms, improving in 100% of subjects. The 75–100% of the some symptoms that resolved over the next 4–6 HBOTs
29 subjects reported problems with thinking, low energy, (n = 7), 3) anxiety associated with exacerbation of PTSD
headaches, depression, mood swings, short-term memory (2 subjects, one of which had chest pain/gastroesophageal
loss, and a disruption of their sleep; 73–93% of these subjects reflux), and 4) bronchospasm (n = 1). Increased anxiety
experienced improvement after 40 HBOTs. Decreased hear- was not due to confinement. Side effects unrelated to the
ing and tinnitus were the least responsive symptoms. The 28 HBOT were: 1) non-cardiac chest pain (n = 2), 2) recurrent
of 29 subjects (97%) responded to 6-month phone follow-up ureterolithiasis (n = 1). Four of these side effects (anxi-
and reported further improvement in 14/18, deterioration in ety-2, exacerbation of headache-1, and ureterolithiasis-1)
3/18, and no change in 1/18 symptom(s) in Table 3. Fifty were considered significant adverse events per protocol
percent (11/22) of subjects who were on psychoactive or definition due to a hospital emergency department visit.
analgesic prescription medication before HBOT decreased Anxiety was treated with re-institution of clonazepam in
or discontinued their medication usage during HBOT; four one subject and a time-limited lorazepam prescription
others discontinued their medication prior to treatment and in the other. One subject, bronchospasm patient above,
were able to maintain their abstinence from medication dropped out due to a bullous myringitis,and time limita-
by the end of treatment. One subject increased narcotic tions in New Orleans. Eleven subjects experienced pro-
medication due to worsened back pain and another subject tocol breaks due primarily to adverse events (above); 10
increased Trazodone for sleep. Two other subjects restarted of these 11 finished the protocol.
or transiently initiated benzodiazepines.
Psychometric measures
Side effects A summary of pre- to post-HBOT neuropsychological (IQ,
Due to the HBOT were: 1) mild reversible middle ear memory, attention) and psychological (PTSD, depression,
Quality of Life) outcomes are shown in Table 4 (Summary 12 subjects who expressed suicidal ideation prior to the
of pre- to post-HBOT neuropsychological and psychologi- HBOT did not express suicidal thoughts after treatment
cal outcomes). Significant improvement was recorded on (McNemar’s Test; P = 0.012). One subject with anxiety
7 of 13 cognitive measures, one measure showed a trend and an adverse event (emergency department visit for in-
toward improvement, and the other 5 showed no signifi- creased anxiety) during treatment had increased suicidal
cant change. ideation after treatment. Eighteen of the 24 subjects (75%)
Full Scale IQ, Visual Working Memory, Delayed Mem- who indicated significant anxiety on several items of the
ory, and Stroop Test showed the largest improvements at GAD-7 before treatment were no longer anxious after
P < 0.001, and one measure of attention improved, TOVA treatment (McNemar’s Test; P < 0.0001). One subject
Impulsivity (P = 0.004). Reliable Change Score analysis on who was not anxious pre-treatment expressed increased
the 24 subjects with WMS IV showed significant changes anxiety post-treatment.
in Visual Working Memory Index (P = 0.003) and Delayed Four subjects failed the Green Word Memory effort test
Memory Index (P = 0.029) (score < 82.5% for the 3 primary subtests), however, their
Subjects experienced significant improvement in anxiety, pre-HBOT PCL-M scores were significantly higher than
depression, post-concussion symptoms, and self-assessed the other 25 subjects (80 vs. 61, P = 0.022). Re-analysis
cognitive, physical, and emotional functioning. After of demographic data (Table 2) and Table 4 data without
HBOT 12 of 23 subjects (52%) no longer met the PCL-M these 4 subjects (Additional file 1) changed the Finger
threshold criteria for diagnosis of PTSD,1 experiencing Tapping Dominant Hand result from significantly posi-
an average 18.8-point reduction in the PCL-M. Ten of tive to a positive trend and the TOVA Variability RT from
a positive trend to non-significant, and showed that the texture (CV) in veterans pre-HBOT (Table 5) were worse,
subjects who failed the WMT had a greater delay to treat- giving the visual appearance of a coarsely heterogeneous
ment and greater increase in FSIQ after HBOT than those pattern. After 1 and 40 HBOTs veterans’ SPECT texture
who passed the WMT. improved while blood flow improved only after one HBOT,
Medication increase/decrease or sleep improvement (Table 6), demonstrating the more normal visual smoothing
during/immediately after HBOT and sleep improvement pattern. Compared to Controls (Table 7), abnormal veterans’
6 months after HBOT had minimal effect on outcome white matter blood flow pre-HBOT improved after 1 and
instruments (Additional file 2). Contribution of moderate 40 HBOTs, becoming statistically indistinguishable from
TBI subjects to the data pool was analyzed in Additional Controls, while abnormal texture improved after 1 and 40
file 3. A greater percentage of moderate TBI subjects were HBOTs in all eight abnormal ROIs, becoming statistically
Asian or Black and decreased the dosage or discontinued indistinguishable from Controls in 75% of abnormal ROIs.
their psychoactive medications by the conclusion of HBOT In addition, after 1 and 40 HBOTs veterans showed im-
than the mild TBI subjects. proved texture in ROIs that were not significantly different
from Controls pre-HBOT. Overall, after 1 and 40 HBOTs
SPECT brain blood flow imaging veterans’ abnormal SPECT brain scans showed a progres-
Significantly and near-significantly different values for sion to a more normal visually smooth pattern of blood flow.
SPECT MCP and CV between veterans pre-HBOT and Radar graphs of SPECT data from Additional file 4,
Controls, changes in veteran SPECT MCP and CV after from which P values in Table 7 are derived, are presented
one and 40 HBOTs, and changes in veterans SPECT MCP in Figure 2. A visual representation of the texture change
and CV after 1 and 40 HBOTs compared to Controls were towards a normal pattern of blood flow on the radar graphs
abstracted from full data sets in Additional files 4, 5 and for a sample veteran before and after HBOT compared to a
presented in Tables 5–7. sample Control subject is presented in both transverse slices
Compared to Controls, brain blood flow (MCP) and and three dimensional surface reconstructions in Figure 3.
Table 6: Changes in veterans’ brain blood flow and texture of brain blood flow after 1 and 40 HBOTs
Mean counts/pixel (MCP) Coefficient of variation (CV)
Region of interest Pre-to-Post-1 Pre-to-Post-40 Pre-to-Post-1 Pre-to-Post-40
Left Gray 030 0.450 (–78 – 171) 0.667 (–209 – 136) 0.050 (–1.30 – 0.00) 0.198 (–0.99 – 0.22)
Left Gray 060 0.531 (–93 – 176) 0.756 (–216 – 159) 0.080 (–1.15 – 0.07) 0.005 (–1.16 to –0.22)
Left Gray 090 0.282 (–60 – 200) 1.000 (–185 – 185) 0.225 (–1.19 – 0.29) 0.779 (–0.76 – 0.57)
Left Gray 120 0.218 (–50 – 210) 0.749 (–201 – 146) 0.107 (–0.97 – 0.10) 0.491 (–1.08 – 0.53)
Left Gray 150 0.396 (–85 – 209) 0.966 (–196 – 188) 0.024 (–1.46 to –0.11) 0.265 (–1.31 – 0.37)
Left Gray All 0.346 (–68 – 188) 0.826 (–198 – 160) 0.005 (–0.96 to –0.19) 0.039 (–0.74 to –0.02)
Left White 060 0.002 (61 – 243) 0.553 (–92 – 169) 0.526 (–1.79 – 0.93) 0.303 (–1.58 – 0.51)
Left White 120 0.002 (52 – 209) 0.784 (–104 – 137) 0.100 (–1.96 – 0.18) 0.046 (–2.11 to –0.02)
Left White All 0.001 (59 – 223) 0.656 (–97 – 151) 0.130 (–1.52 – 0.20) 0.064 (–1.65 – 0.05)
Right Gray 030 0.591 (–89 – 154) 0.622 (–219 – 133) 0.245 (–0.87 – 0.23) 0.333 (–0.86 – 0.30)
Right Gray 060 0.361 (–69 – 183) 0.725 (–206 – 145) 0.055 (–0.89 – 0.01) 0.114 (–0.91 – 0.10)
Right Gray 090 0.318 (–59 – 177) 0.969 (–184 – 177) 0.370 (–0.99 – 0.38) 0.736 (–0.42 – 0.59)
Right Gray 120 0.153 (–31 – 188) 0.906 (–163 – 183) 0.204 (–1.18 – 0.26) 0.851 (–0.75 – 0.62)
Right Gray 150 0.608 (–108 – 181) 0.898 (–185 – 209) 0.415 (–0.71 – 0.30) 0.217 (–0.83 – 0.20)
Right Gray All 0.372 (–66 – 171) 0.901 (–189 – 167) 0.033 (–0.66 to –0.03) 0.087 (–0.42 – 0.03)
Right White 060 0.005 (34 – 174) 0.966 (–121 – 126) 0.127 (–2.28 – 0.30) 0.037 (–2.30 to –0.08)
Right White 120 0.004 (45 – 209) 0.726 (–99 – 141) 0.027 (–1.59 to –0.10) 0.413 (–1.46 – 0.62)
Right White All 0.003 (43 – 189) 0.842 (–107 – 130) 0.024 (–1.71 to –0.13) 0.070 (–1.68 – 0.07)
Note: Data are expressed as P value (95% CI). Statistically significant (P < 0.05; in bold) and near significant (P < 0.10; in italics) changes in veterans’
SPECT MCP and CV pre-HBOT to post-1 and post-40 HBOTs (P values with 95% CI) are in shaded cells. Significant P values indicate improvement
after HBOT: more blood flow (MCP) or less heterogeneity (CV). HBOT: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy; CI: confidence interval.
other patients reported an improvement in symptoms at this Headache is a known marker of TBI PPCS and distin-
point, also documented in Wolf et al.13 [Figure 2, ImPACT guishes TBI PPCS from PTSD in blast brain-injured U.S.
scores at Exposure Interval 5 (20 treatments)]. We speculate soldiers.3 The significant reduction in headaches suggests
that this mid-point in the protocol represents a transition treatment of TBI and the organic injury of TBI established
in brain wound adaptation/transformation to the repeti- by our subjects’ loss of consciousness.61,62 It also is consis-
tive effects of intermittent hyperoxia and pressure since it tent with and reaffirms the previous animal work on HBOT
corresponds to the time (25 treatments) at which physical in chronic TBI wounding59 at a similar dose of HBOT (152
changes/improvements were noted in HBOT-treated rats on kPa/90 minutes twice/day, 7 days/week). These findings are
the same protocol59 and the plateau for the angiogenic phase similar to the findings in the previously mentioned human
in HBOT-treated human osteoradionecrosis.60 experience with moderate to severe chronic TBI,15-23 and
blast-induced mTBI uncomplicated by PTSD.26 Collec-
Effectiveness of HBOT for blast TBI and PTSD tively, they suggest treatment of cerebral wounds from TBI.
The major findings in this study were: 1) the significant The PTSD symptom reduction is one of the greatest
improvements and magnitude of improvements in all out- reductions in PTSD symptoms in a four-week period with
come instruments (symptoms, cognition, mood, quality of any reported treatment63 and combined with the effect on
life, and imaging) that were reproducible (strengthened P PPCS outcomes represents the only reported treatment for
values) from the first 16 subjects27 to the final 14 subjects, the combined diagnoses of blast-induced PPCS and PTSD.
2) the abnormal brain blood flow pattern that became nearly The 18.8-point reduction in PCL-M is greater than the PCL-
indistinguishable from Controls after treatment, 3) one of M reduction in 13/16 RCTs of second-line interventions
the longest follow-up periods of any HBOT/PPCS study, 4) in military-related PTSD.64 Half of the subjects no longer
the increased symptom improvement six months post treat- met the PCL-M threshold criteria for diagnosis of PTSD. A
ment, and 5) the reduction in suicidal ideation. Effect sizes lesser reduction of PTSD symptoms has been confirmed in
and confidence intervals were substantial. These findings all three DoD-funded HBOT studies.13,29,30 Spontaneous re-
were mirrored by a reciprocal reduction or elimination of covery of PPCS or PTSD 3.35 years after injury and further
psychoactive and narcotic prescription medication usage, improvement in PPCS symptoms 6 months post-treatment
and maintained abstinence from the same medication dis- is contrary to the natural history of TBI, PTSD, and TBI
continued immediately pre-HBOT. with PTSD in veterans.65 Coupled with the significant
Table 7: Comparison of veterans’ brain blood flow and texture of brain blood flow to Controls before, after 1, and after
40 HBOTs.
Mean counts/pixel (MCP) Coefficient of variation (CV)
Region of
interest Pre Post 1 Post 40 Pre Post 1 Post 40
Left Gray 030 0.374 0.775 0.175 0.647 (+) 0.086 0.445
(–218 – 83) (–165 – 124) (–256 – 48) (–0.52 – 0.83) (–1.06 – 0.07) (–0.85 – 0.38)
Left Gray 060 0.251 0.491 0.134 0.708 0.223 (+) 0.070
(–248 – 66) (–192 – 93) (–277 – 38) (–0.54 – 0.79) (–1.10 – 0.26) (–1.18 – 0.05)
Left Gray 090 0.640 0.629 0.658 0.310 (+) 0.025 0.176
(–188 – 116) (–107 – 176) (–196 – 125) (–1.32 – 0.43) (–1.68 to –0.12) (–1.33 – 0.25)
Left Gray 120 0.441 0.785 0.273 0.783 0.139 0.347
(–214 – 95) (–127 – 167) (–245 – 71) (–0.76 – 0.58) (–1.24 – 0.18) (–1.14 – 0.41)
Left Gray 150 0.562 0.890 0.510 (–) 0.041 0.966 0.428
(–229 – 125) (–140 – 161) (–224 – 112) (0.03 – 1.57) (–0.64 – 0.67) (–0.50 – 1.17)
Left Gray All 0.428 0.988 0.304 0.594 (+) 0.034 0.183
(–214 – 92) (–141 – 139) (–236 – 75) (–0.30 – 0.51) (–0.89 to –0.04) (–0.68 – 0.13)
Left White 060 0.104 0.410 0.336 0.427 0.864 0.997
(–227 – 22) (–70 – 168) (–198 – 69) (–0.80 – 1.87) (–1.14 – 1.35) (–1.28 – 1.28)
Left White 120 (–) 0.074 (–232 – 0.715 0.147 (–) 0.013 0.348 0.638
11) (–90 – 130) (–223 – 34) (0.29 – 2.36) (–0.48 – 1.35) (–0.83 – 1.35)
Left White All (–) 0.083 0.534 0.219 (–) 0.043 0.477 0.773
(–228 – 14) (–76 – 146) (–207 – 48) (0.03 – 1.82) (–0.48 – 1.02) (–0.76 – 1.01)
Right Gray 030 0.457 0.724 0.219 0.891 0.291 0.370
(–215 – 98) (–175 – 122) (–265 – 62) (–0.50 – 0.57) (–0.81 – 0.25) (–0.77 – 0.29)
Right Gray 060 0.128 0.360 (–) 0.064 0.959 0.149 0.174
(–284 – 36) (–211 – 78) (–317 – 9) (–0.65 – 0.62) (–1.08 – 0.17) (–1.03 – 0.19)
Right Gray 090 0.314 0.783 0.331 0.190 0.718 0.121
(–231 – 75) (–157 – 119) (–247 – 85) (–0.22 – 1.07) (–0.55 – 0.79) (–0.14 – 1.16)
Right Gray 120 0.165 0.724 0.268 0.175 0.958 0.186
(–253 – 44) (–169 – 118) (–263 – 75) (–0.20 – 1.08) (–0.69 – 0.66) (–0.19 – 0.94)
Right Gray 150 0.376 0.666 0.508 (–) 0.005 (–) 0.020 (–) 0.047
(–224 – 86) (–182 – 117) (–227 – 114) (0.29 – 1.53) (0.12 – 1.29) (0.01 – 1.18)
Right Gray All 0.253 0.628 0.234 (–) 0.012 0.928 0.245
(–237 – 63) (–174 – 106) (–260 – 65) (0.08 – 0.64) (–0.31 – 0.34) (–0.12 – 0.44)
Right White 060 (–) 0.075 0.917 0.100 (–) 0.010 0.407 0.557
(–233 – 12) (–126 – 113) (–237 – 21) (0.39 – 2.68) (–0.76 – 1.84) (–0.83 – 1.52)
Right White 120 (–) 0.027 0.799 (–) 0.067 (–) 0.002 0.114 (–) 0.030
(–267 to –17) (–126 – 98) (–250 – 9) (0.61 – 2.55) (–0.18 – 1.64) (0.11 – 2.20)
Right White All (–) 0.037 0.854 (–) 0.074 (–) <0.001 0.109 (–) 0.086
(–244 to –8) (–122 – 101) (–240 – 12) (0.84 – 2.27) (–0.15 – 1.42) (–0.11 – 1.61)
Note: Data are expressed as P value (95% CI). Statistically significant (P < 0.05; in bold) and near-significant (P < 0.10; in italics) differences in SPECT
MCP and CV between veterans pre-HBOT, post-1 HBOT, and post-40 HBOTs and Controls (P values) with 95% CI are in dark shaded cells. Negative
P values for MCP indicate decreased MCP (worse) compared to Controls at each time point. Negative P values for CV indicate increased CV (worse)
and positive P values for CV indicate decreased CV (better) compared to Controls at each time point. Diagonal lined cells indicate improvements
in abnormal pre-HBOT MCP and CV values after 1 and 40 HBOTs. The black box is the sole deterioration after HBOT. HBOT: Hyperbaric oxygen
therapy; CI: confidence interval.
cognitive improvements demonstrated by Reliable Change full scale IQ. It also suggests a bias in neuropsychological
Score analysis these outcomes argue for cause and effect of testing of patients in which the definition of “normal” or
HBOT in PPCS and PTSD. “average” intellectual ability is construed to mean no dam-
The magnitude of these cognitive and affective improve- age or deficit. Our subjects complained of a reduction in
ments was criticized based on historically minimal or absent their basic intellectual abilities and that they were not back
decreases in intellectual function after simple mild TBI.66,67 to their “normal” cognitive levels, yet their FSIQ and VWM
This magnitude of improvement is likely due in part to treat- were “normal” and “average” before treatment. According
ment of both TBI and PTSD,63,68,69 treatment of patients with to the patients, their complaints were often dismissed or
multiple TBIs,70 treatment of combined blast and blunt TBI, attributed to emotional factors or even malingering. After
use of the broad 25th–75th percentile range as “normal,” and treatment their FSIQ, memory, and other cognitive scores
reporting of an infrequent measure of concussion damage, improved significantly to above “normal”/average levels,
Table 8: Summary of Department of Defense-funded and civilian studies on HBOT in mild TBI/PPCS.
Author Type N Dose (kPa) Outcome imaging Outcome PPCS Outcome PTSD Outcome PTSD/PPCS
25
Harch et al. Case Report 1 152 O2 + + + +
Wright et al.26 Case Report 2 152 O2 +
Harch et al.27 Prospective 30 152 O2 + + + +
Case Series
Wolf et al.13 RCT 50 132/122 air vs. + +
243 O2 + +
Boussi-Gross et al.28 RCT 71 No pressure 0 0
152 O2 + +
Crossover + +
Scorza et al.12 (subset RCT 50 132/122 air vs. ? + +
Wolf et al.13) 243 O2 – + +
Cifu et al.29 RCT 60 203P/21 O2 0 0
203P/152 O2 0 0
203P/203 O2 0 +
Walker et al.31 RCT 60 203P/21 O2 ? 0*
203P/152 O2 ? 0+
203P/203 O2 ? 0*
Cifu et al.32 RCT 60 203P/21 O2 ? 0#
203P/152 O2 ? 0#
203P/203 O2 ? 0#
Miller et al.30 RCT 72 No pressure 0 0
122 air + +
152 O2 + +
Note: "*" No within group pre/post testing; "#" No within group pre/post testing, yet multiple significant cognitive outcomes reported for the entire
cohort in Additional files of the study. "?" Not mentioned in abstract. Blue shading represents positive, gray represents neutral or indeterminate, red
represents negative study outcomes at a given dose of HBOT. HBOT: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy; TBI: traumatic brain injury; PPCS: persistent post-
concussion syndrome; PTSD: post-traumatic stress disorder.
underscoring that they were not “normal”/average or at findings. The main blood flow abnormalities, lower blood
their previous normal level after their concussion(s). The flow and coarse texture, were found in the white matter
treatment results were independent of effort (Green Word consistent with the primary injury site in mTBI.72,73 These
Memory Test) and greater than would be expected by test- abnormalities were statistically normalized or near normal-
retest/practice effects (Reliable Change Score analysis). Ac- ized after HBOT. The improved texture corresponds to the
cepting “Average” as a post-injury assessment of “normal” pattern of blood flow seen in normal people (Figure 3) and
can lead to inaccurate judgments and suggests that general HBOT-treated patients with a variety of chronic neuropa-
intellectual ability and memory outcome instruments should thologies (trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning, decom-
be more commonly employed in PPCS treatment studies. pression sickness, near-drowning, cerebral palsy)17,18,74,75
Subjects experienced large emotional improvements. in the past two decades and is consistent with the findings
83% of subjects with suicidal ideation and 75% of subjects reported with perfusion CT using our protocol of HBOT 152
with panic attacks experienced a reduction or cessation in kPa on chronic severe TBI, anoxic, and stroke patients.76
suicidal ideation or panic attacks after treatment. This is the Taken together, the overall unchanged blood flow (MCP)
first report of reduction in suicidal ideation or panic attacks and decreased range of blood flow (improved CV) after 40
in a hyperbaric therapy study on veterans. Self-reported HBOTs suggests that HBOT normalized brain blood flow
Quality of Life and the subjects’ estimate of the percent by simultaneously decreasing elevated brain blood flow and
of their pre-deployment “normal” level of function also increasing lowered brain blood flow.
improved significantly. The reductions in suicidal ideation, The unchanged total amount of brain blood flow after
panic attacks, and psychoactive medication use have impli- 40 treatments is different from the findings in the first 16
cations for the current suicide epidemic in veterans. This subjects of this study reported with statistical parametric
is particularly meaningful, considering the contribution of mapping27 and other SPECT HBOT chronic TBI studies19,28
psychoactive medication to veteran suicides.71 which noted increased brain blood flow after a course of
All of the veterans’ non-imaging deficits, and improve- HBOT. These discrepancies are likely due to differences
ments after HBOT, were explained by the brain blood flow in analytic methodologies and the heterogeneity of the
samples/injuries. The common finding is HBOT-induced and were apparent at 40 HBOTs, similar to Wolf et al.,13 not
improvement in either amount or pattern of brain blood after the first HBOT, underscoring that the cognitive and
flow. Based on flow-metabolism-function coupling77-80 symptom improvements were related to the brain blood flow
these improvements in blood flow are physiologically normalization after 40 HBOTs. This is consistent with the
responsible for the improvements in symptoms, physical SPECT and cognitive improvements after 40 treatments in
exam, cognition, emotional state, and quality of life expe- Boussi-Gross et al.28 and the cognitive improvements after
rienced by our subjects. Collectively, the SPECT/HBOT/ more than 35 treatments in Golden and Neubauer et al.20
TBI literature15-23,28 suggests the utility of SPECT in TBI81 HBOT is a treatment for acute, subacute, or chronic
and as a surrogate endpoint in mTBI/PPCS.82 wounds in any anatomical location.5,6 In the preliminary
The different effects of one and 40 HBOTs on brain blood report27 it was argued that HBOT was treating the mi-
flow (Table 6) reaffirmed the findings on the first 16 sub- croscopic white matter wounds of TBI. Recent reports in
jects,27 suggesting different metabolic/physiology effects of animals and humans have proven the existence of primarily
a single vs. 40 consecutive HBOTs in chronically injured perivascular white matter wounds in chronic blast-induced
brain. These effects are inconsistent with placebo effects TBI,85,86 which are similar in location to the perivascular
documented with SPECT.83,84 In addition, the symptom and white matter wounds of chronic cerebral decompression
cognitive improvements in subjects occurred progressively sickness,87 the original wound to which we applied HBOT
A B
A B
152 kPa in 1990.88 The presence of white matter wounds is We speculate that in the course of treating the TBI/PPCS
consistent with the reductions in white matter blood flow wounds the pathways for recurring pathological thoughts
in the present study. The global symptomatic, cognitive, of PTSD are interrupted similar to interruption of cardiac
affective, physical exam, and imaging improvements in re-entrant rhythms with medication or ablation therapies.
our studies and the studies of others13,16,19,20,26,28,30-32,76 are This speculation is supported by the successful treatment
consistent with the known wound-healing effects of HBOT of PTSD with stellate ganglion block.94 The mechanism of
on the diffuse cerebral microscopic wounds of TBI. action is possibly modulation of gene expression. A recent
The microscopic wound model, however, does not ex- study reveals genetic influences on the development of
plain the surprising improvement of PTSD symptoms in PTSD and shared genetic risk between PTSD and schizo-
the subjects. Persistence of PTSD has demonstrated long- phrenia, bipolar, and major depressive disorder.95 HBOT
term evidence of brain wounding,89 yet no pathological90 may be suppressing these genes in a similar fashion to in
or imaging70 signature is evident. PTSD shares some of vitro studies.96-99
the same anatomical areas involved with TBI/PPCS.89,91-93 The significant outcomes in this study demand interpre-
tation in the context of the subsequent more rigorous,28,30 These disparities are not consistent with placebo effects
and multi-dosing studies13,29 and their confusing results/ where more placebo would be expected to have increasing
conclusions.13,29-32,100-102 Since the first application of HBOT and sustained effects. In addition, durability of placebo
152 kPa to Veterans with mTBI/PPCS and PTSD25 other effects105 and further improvement after placebo treatment
researchers have: 1) duplicated HBOT-induced mTBI/PPCS are uncommon. Rather, they are consistent with the 3 pat-
improvements with the same HBOT 152 kPa dose using a terns of improvement identified in a review of placebo-drug
stronger experimental design,29,31 2) demonstrated positive13,30 studies that differentiate true drug effects of different doses
and negative (“harmful”)12 effects with different doses of of HBOT from the 61 placebo effect patterns.106
HBOT (243 kPa oxygen, 122 kPa and 132 kPa air), and 3) A more recent explanation, the “ritual” of the hyperbaric
demonstrated neutral29 or indeterminate31,32 effects with three chamber experience30 is a theoretical contribution to placebo
alternate doses (203 kPa pressure/21 kPa oxygen, 152 kPa ox- effect and is likely a component of the placebo effect, but
ygen, or 203 kPa oxygen). HBOT PTSD studies have shown it was argued based on the mischaracterization of sham in
benefit at 152 kPa oxygen,25,27,30 203 kPa oxygen,29 243 kPa previous articles. It is inconsistent with the varied results in
oxygen,13 132/122 kPa air,13,30 and no benefit at 203 kPa pres- the DoD studies above. All of these studies contained the
sure/(21 kPa oxygen or 152 kPa oxygen).29 The two recent same “ritual” experience as the present study and should
studies by Wolf and colleagues100,101 preclude comparative have had the same positive results. They did not. In addi-
dosing analysis due to lack of actual data; both publications tion, ritual does not explain the improvement of cognition
featured derived data/statistics. All of these studies except and blood vessel density in an animal model of mTBI59 that
the recent Wolf’s studies100,101 are summarized in Table 8. used the original human protocol of 152 kPa oxygen, a near
Since HBOT is a combination therapy of increased pressure identical dose of hyperbaric therapy to the present study.
and increased oxygen4,5 the discrepancies in experimental The more likely alternative to the multiple non-treatment
results for all studies and diagnoses are best explained by the and placebo effects explanations is the one that is consis-
effects of different doses of hyperbaric therapy on different tent with the data, the biology of hyperbaric therapy,6 and
neuropathologies, multi-dose study designs, mis-definitions Occam’s razor.107 HBOT is a known therapy for wounds
of HBOT and sham, confusing statistical analyses, and erro- whose effects are dependent on dose. Mild TBI/PPCS
neous conclusions.4,5,102-104 A dose-response relationship with is characterized by persistent white matter microscopic
both oxygen and pressure is strongly suggested by Table 9. wounds.85,86 HBOT in this study is treating the microscopic
The oxygen component of this dose argument has been sup- white matter wounds of chronic TBI and the associated
ported by others.104 The data12,13,25-32 suggest that the pure 152 psychiatric condition of PTSD that invests these wounds.
kPa dose of oxygen and the 132/122 kPa air pressurization The differences in results between clinical studies are due
doses are beneficial in PPCS with or without PTSD (Table to differences in doses of hyperbaric therapy.
8) and that the 152 kPa oxygen dose has durability (present A single dose of HBOT can induce excitability and neu-
study with 6-month phone follow-up). ral plasticity of hippocampal neurons in normal rat brain
Alternative explanations posited for our data and the data slices108 while repetitive doses in an injury model have
of the DoD-funded studies13,29-32 are placebo, relocation, shown neurogenesis.109 The mechanism of action of HBOT
Hawthorne, test/retest and practice effects, and the “ritual in central nervous system (CNS) wounds are unknown but
of HBOT”,30 collectively referred to as Non-Treatment Ef- likely similar to those in non-CNS wounds.6 HBOT exerts
fects. All of these Non-Treatment Effects, except relocation its wound-healing effects by expression and suppression
and ritual, were previously addressed in multiple publica- of oxygen and pressure sensitive genes.96 A single HBOT
tions.27,63,68 They cannot explain the multiplicity of positive to human microvascular endothelial cells upregulated and
findings across all domains in our study, especially the imag- downregulated 8,101 genes in 24 hours and enhanced
ing findings,27,63,68 and are refuted by the disparity in reported vascular network formation. The primary gene clusters af-
data from all of the mTBI studies reviewed above.12,13,25-32 fected were the anti-inflammatory genes and genes that code
Placebo and relocation effects should be greatest in beautiful for cell growth and proliferation. These gene-activating
Pensacola, Florida, but this study site had the least positive effects and tissue responsiveness are dependent on the
or neutral effects.29,31,32 The bulk of improvements accrued dose of hyperbaric oxygen and pressure applied.4,97-99 The
in the first 20 treatments in Miller et al.,30 were absent in the improvements, neutral, or negative effects of hyperbaric
203 kPa pressure studies,29,31,32 occurred after 20 treatments therapy in the multiple studies13,25-32 reflect the doses of
in the Wolf et al.’s13 air group, and were present in the first pressure and hyperoxia that were applied to chronic brain
20 treatments, lost in the second 20 treatments, and regained wounds in the various studies. Some doses are effective,
in the post-treatment period in Wolf et al.’s13 HBOT group. some are ineffective, and one is harmful in the treatment
of PPCS, PTSD, and PPCS with PTSD. Repair of chronic matched Controls, TBI/PTSD subjects’ brain blood flow was
brain wounds by trophism is supported by the durability abnormal, but became visually more normal and statistically
of the clinical improvements in our subjects. At 6-month near-indistinguishable from Controls after 1 and 40 HBOTs.
follow-up all subjects not only maintained improvement, The main blood flow abnormalities and changes in blood
but also reported further improvement. flow after HBOT were in the white matter, the primary site
Historical protocols have demonstrated that 30–40 of injury in mTBI. Simultaneously and most importantly,
HBOTs are necessary for healing of chronic non-CNS subjects experienced a significant reduction in suicidal
wounds,6 similar to the number of treatments in our study, ideation and anxiety, possibly the most significant finding
however, it is half the number of HBOTs (80) that we have in the study given the current veteran suicide epidemic. At
used clinically in more severe cases.15-23 In our original the same time they were able to discontinue or decrease
animal pilot study we compared 40 and 80 HBOTs to 40 the dosage of their psychoactive medications and 52%
sham air treatments and found a greater effect on memory no longer met the criteria for PTSD. These data comprise
and blood vessel density with 80 HBOTs vs. 40 HBOTs.110 the strongest evidence and only treatment to date for the
This became the final protocol of the animal model. 59 combined diagnoses of blast-induced PPCS with PTSD,
The animal studies and previous clinical experience with and thus represent the best evidence-based medicine111 for
chronic moderate to severe TBI15-23,76 suggests our subjects these dual-diagnoses.68
might show further improvement with additional HBOT as
was shown in Wright et al.’s use of the 152 kPa protocol.26
Acknowledgments
The limitations of the present study were unblinded in- The authors acknowledge the important and extensive contribu-
vestigators, and lack of a treatment control group. Placebo/ tions of John C. Pezzullo, Ph.D. (statistics), Logan M. Harch
non-treatment effects were discussed above. Investigator (SPECT texture analysis of patients and normals), Paul K. Staab,
bias likely contributed to the magnitude of some of the P.I.’s M.D. (supervision of hyperbaric treatment and attendance of
patients), Phillip J. Tranchina (SPECT processing), William A.
symptom and physical exam recording and author SRA’s Duncan, Ph.D. and the late Honorable Martin Hoffmann, ex-Sec-
neuropsychological testing, but are unlikely to account for retary of the Army, for their steadfast support and help in soliciting
the majority of the effects or the consistency and magnitude donations for this study, Soldiers Angels, The Audubon Society,
of the effects across all domains. This is particularly true for New Orleans Steamboat Company, the Alliance for Natural Health,
the National WWII Museum, and Westwego Swamp Boat Tours.
the SPECT subject/SPECT Control Group analyses where Thanks to Sean Bal and Ray Crowell, our hyperbaric technicians,
the investigators did not interact with the subjects and per- for their expert and safe delivery of hyperbaric oxygen therapy,
formed their analyses months to years after the subjects had Wanda Phillips for review of all of the study records, and Amy
completed their final imaging. Lack of a treatment control Trosclair of the BRI for overseeing the disbursement of funds.
Author contributions
group is addressed with the placebo discussion and the PGH, SRA, EFF, JL, KWVM: Contributions to the conception
results of the treatment-controlled studies. Currently, we or design of the work; PGH, SRA, EFF: interpretation of data;
are conducting a randomized controlled study of HBOT PGH, SRA, EFF, JL, KWVM: contributions to the acquisition
152 kPa in civilians and military subjects with mTBI PPCS and analysis of data for the work, and drafting the article; PGH,
SRA, EFF: manuscript edition; PGH, SRA, EFF, JL, KWVM:
without clinical PTSD. final approval of the article.
In conclusion, a 30-day course of 40 HBOT treatments Conflicts of interest
delivered at 152 kPa/60 minutes, twice/day, 5 days/week, to Dr. Harch owns a small hyperbaric medicine consulting company.
military subjects with PPCS of mild-moderate blast-induced He derives income from the treatment facility that is the primary lo-
cation of his medical practice. He is on the board of directors of the
TBI with or without PTSD was safe with no persistent International Hyperbaric Medical Association, a non-profit profes-
adverse events. Acute adverse events were more common sional organization, and derives no income from this organization.
than in other studies and the investigator’s historical experi- Dr. Fogarty is president of the International Hyperbaric Medical
ence, but were felt to be due to the intense dosing schedule. Foundation (IHMF), a non-profit corporation that promotes educa-
tion, research, and teaching in hyperbaric medicine. He also owns
Subjects experienced significant improvements in PPCS and a holding company for a mobile hyperbaric clinic. Dr. Andrews
PTSD symptoms, physical exam abnormalities, cognition, has no competing financial interests. Juliette Lucarini, is co-owner
depression, anxiety, quality of life, and brain blood flow that of the hyperbaric consulting company with Paul G. Harch, M.D.
cannot be explained with non-treatment effects; they are Dr. Van Meter owns a hyperbaric equipment leasing company and
contracts with hospitals to provide hyperbaric medicine physician
more consistent with the known wound-healing effects of staffing. Dr. Van Meter also owns the treatment facility. Partial
HBOT on the diffuse cerebral microscopic wounds of TBI. presentation of a small subset of data at HBOT 2014 (The 9th
Moreover, symptomatic improvements increased further International Symposium on Hyperbaric Oxygenation: Roadmap
during the 6-month post-treatment period. Compared to the for the Future). Presented two slides on P values for the cognitive
and quality of life outcomes for the first 24 subjects, compared 6. Weaver LK. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Indications. The Hy-
to the first 15 subjects, in a lecture on review of the science and perbaric Oxygen Therapy Committee Report, 13th ed; 2014;
literature of HBOT in persistent post-concussion syndrome. None Durham, NC.
of the imaging, demographics, and content of the tables in this 7. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services National Cover-
manuscript were presented at that meeting. age Determination (NCD) Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (2029).
Research ethics National Coverage Determinations (NCD) Manual, Publication
The study protocol was approved by the Louisiana State University Number 100-3, Chapter 1, Part 1, Section 20.29, effective date
Institutional Review Board. The study followed international and 6/19/2006. http://www.cms.hhs.gov/mcd/viewncd.asp?ncd_id=
national regulations in accordance with the Declaration of Hel- 20.29&ncd_version=3&basket=ncd%3A20.29%3A3%3AHyp
sinki. The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: erbaric+Oxygen+Therapy.
NCT00760734). 8. Harch PG. HBO therapy in global cerebral ischemia/anoxia
Data sharing statement and coma, Chapter 20. In: Jain KK, ed. Textbook of Hyperbaric
The datasets analyzed during the current study are available from Medicine 6th ed. Cham, Switzerland: Springer; 2017:269-319.
the corresponding author on reasonable request. 9. U.S. Navy Diving Manual, Revision 6, Vol. 1, Sec. 3-9.2.2.2,
Plagiarism check Symptoms of CNS Oxygen toxicity, pgs. 42-3.Chapter 3: Un-
Checked twice by iThenticate. derwater Physiology and Diving Disorders. 3-9 Indirect Effects
Peer review of Pressure on the Human Body. SS521-AG-PRO-010, 9010-
Externally peer reviewed. LP-106-0957. Published by direction of Commander, Naval
Open access statement Sea Systems Command, 4/15/2008.
This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the 10. Clark JM. Oxygen toxicity. In: Chapter 6. In: Bennett P, Elliott
Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 D, eds. The Physiology and Medicine of Diving, 4th Edition.
License, which allows others to remix, tweak, and build upon the London: W.B. Saunders Company, LTD.; 1993:121-169.
work non-commercially, as long as the author is credited and the 11. Lin JW, Tsai JT, Lee LM, et al. Effect of hyperbaric oxygen
new creations are licensed under the identical terms. on patients with traumatic brain injury. Acta Neurochir Suppl.
Open peer reviewers 2008;101:145-149.
Xue-jun Sun, Second Military Medical University, China; Vincenzo 12. Scorza KA, McCarthy W, Miller RS, Carne W, Wolf GW. Hy-
Zanon, University of Padova, Italy. perbaric oxygen effects on PTSD and mTBI symptoms: a sub-
Additional files set analysis. Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society Annual
Additional Table 1: List and Schedule of Psychometric Measures,
Meeting; 2013; Orlando, FL, USA.
When Administered, and Domain Measured.
13. Wolf G, Cifu D, Baugh L, Carne W, Profenna L. The effect
Additional file 1: Re-Analysis of All Variables by Green Pass/Fail.
of hyperbaric oxygen on symptoms after mild traumatic brain
Additional file 2: Association of Improvements in Sleep and Medi-
injury. J Neurotrauma. 2012;29:2606-2612.
cation with Changes in NeuroPsych and SPECT Variables.
14. Harch PG. The dosage of hyperbaric oxygen in chronic brain
Additional file 3: Contribution of Moderate TBI to Composite Data.
injury. The Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium on
Additional file 4: Analysis of SPECT Data.
Hyperbaric Oxygenation for Cerebral Palsy and the Brain-In-
Additional file 5: Approach of SPECT MCP and CV at baseline,
jured Child; 2002; Flagstaff.
post-1 HBOT, and post-40 HBOTs to Control Subjects’ MCP
15. Harch PG, Van Meter KW, Gottlieb SF, Staab P. HMPAO
and CV.
SPECT brain imaging and low pressure HBOT in the diagnosis
and treatment of chronic traumatic, ischemic, hypoxic, and an-
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Reduction in
Variable Increased Meds No Change All Subjects p-val
Meds
34.8 ± 4.5 (4) 29.5 ± 9.2 (8) 30.5 ± 7.7 (11) 30.4 ± 7.5 (29)
Age 0.548
33.5 (31 – 41) 27.5 (22 – 51) 27 (23 – 45) 29 (21 – 51)
99 ± 20 (4) 66 ± 97 (8) 51 ± 51 (11) 72 ± 73 (29)
MoSvc 0.493
102 (72 – 120) 32 (9 – 300) 42 (18 – 197) 42 (9 – 300)
1.25 ± 1.26 (4) 1.25 ± 1.04 (8) 0.45 ± 0.69 (11) 1.28 ± 2.14 (29)
PriorTBI 0.144
1 (0 – 3) 1 (0 – 3) 0 (0 – 2) 1 (0 – 10)
1.8 ± 1.0 (4) 9.5 ± 9.8 (8) 3.1 ± 3.9 (11) 4.5 ± 6.3 (29)
Blasts 0.075
1.5 (1 – 3) 5.5 (1 – 25) 1 (1 – 13) 2 (1 – 25)
3.48 ± 1.13 (8) 3.35 ± 1.21 (29)
4.06 ± 0.63 (4) 3.09 ± 1.39 (11)
Delay 3.12 (2.25 – 3.25 (1.25 – 0.396
4.17 (3.25 – 4.67) 2.92 (1.25 – 5.33)
5.83) 5.83)
0.38 ± 0.75 (4) 0.25 ± 0.39 (8) 0.10 ± 0.20 (11) 0.27 ± 0.50 (29)
Tobacco 0.475
0 (0 – 1.5) 0 (0 – 1) 0 (0 – 0.5) 0 (0 – 2)
12.50 ± 1.00 (4) 13.19 ± 2.95 (8) 13.36 ± 1.52 (11) 13.02 ± 2.01 (29)
Educ 0.779
12 (12 – 14) 12 (10 – 19) 13.5 (11 – 16) 12 (9 – 19)
39.50 ± 1.00 (4) 40.00 ± 0.00 (8) 39.64 ± 0.67 (11) 39.72 ± 0.65 (29)
HBOTn 0.328
40 (38 – 40) 40 (40 – 40) 40 (38 – 40) 40 (38 – 40)
32.0 ± 8.0 (4) 30.5 ± 2.0 (8) 30.0 ± 2.3 (11) 30.9 ± 4.5 (29)
HBOTd 0.655
28 (28 – 44) 30 (29 – 35) 30 (27 – 34) 30 (23 – 44)
84.0 ± 17.7 (4) 95.5 ± 6.8 (8) 84.1 ± 13.3 (11) 89.2 ± 12.1 (29)
GreenIR 0.131
90 (58 – 98) 98 (80 – 100) 88 (60 – 100) 90 (58 – 100)
85.5 ± 11.9 (4) 92.6 ± 8.8 (8) 83.6 ± 13.8 (11) 88.6 ± 11.6 (29)
GreenDR 0.284
90.5 (68 – 93) 94 (75 – 100) 90 (60 – 100) 93 (60 – 100)
84.0 ± 13.7 (4) 92.3 ± 9.1 (8) 78.8 ± 16.1 (11) 85.6 ± 13.8 (29)
GreenCNS 0.134
88 (65 – 95) 95 (75 – 100) 83 (55 – 100) 88 (55 – 100)
71.3 ± 17.0 (4) 87.5 ± 16.7 (8) 67.9 ± 17.0 (11) 77.5 ± 18.1 (29)
GreenMC 0.060
75 (50 – 85) 90 (50 – 100) 62 (40 – 95) 85 (40 – 100)
36.5 ± 25.1 (4) 52.0 ± 22.6 (8) 51.5 ± 20.2 (11) 51.9 ± 21.9 (29)
GreenFR 0.461
32.5 (13 – 68) 42.5 (33 – 100) 48 (25 – 95) 48 (13 – 100)
4.0 ± 6.2 (4) -3.1 ± 13.0 (7) 2.9 ± 12.6 (10) 2.8 ± 11.9 (24)
AMI 6 (-5 – 9) -2 (-26 – 10) -1 (-16 – 22) 5.5 (-26 – 22) 0.521
p = 0.289 p = 0.545 p = 0.486 p = 0.264
3.8 ± 5.3 (4) 1.9 ± 20.3 (7) 3.4 ± 9.6 (10) 3.9 ± 13.8 (24)
VMI 5 (-3 – 8) 1 (-30 – 30) 3 (-12 – 21) 3 (-30 – 30) 0.966
p = 0.253 p = 0.817 p = 0.293 p = 0.177
6.3 ± 8.5 (4) 1.3 ± 9.6 (7) 7.4 ± 8.9 (10) 6.8 ± 10.0 (24)
VWMI 7 (-4 – 15) 4 (-18 – 12) 11 (-7 – 16) 7.5 (-18 – 25) 0.397
p = 0.236 p = 0.736 p = 0.027 p = 0.003
6.3 ± 6.1 (4) 1.7 ± 15.4 (7) 5.6 ± 12.1 (10) 5.7 ± 12.0 (24)
DMI 6 (-1 – 14) 2 (-21 – 26) 4 (-16 – 21) 5.5 (-21 – 26) 0.783
p = 0.134 p = 0.778 p = 0.177 p = 0.029
15.0 ± 5.5 (4) 7.6 ± 10.0 (8) 16.6 ± 11.2 (11) 14.2 ± 10.3 (29)
IQ 15 (9 – 21) 10 (-9 – 21) 16 (3 – 47) 15 (-9 – 47) 0.172
p = 0.012 p = 0.067 p < 0.001 p < 0.001
17.8 ± 2.5 (4) 13.8 ± 13.1 (8) 15.5 ± 15.0 (11) 15.2 ± 13.9 (29)
DelWMS 17.5 (15 – 21) 16 (-6 – 30) 16 (-4 – 38) 17 (-19 – 38) 0.882
p < 0.001 p = 0.021 p = 0.006 p < 0.001
11.0 ± 6.9 (4) 9.4 ± 13.4 (8) 12.2 ± 9.1 (11) 11.3 ± 10.5 (29)
WrkWMS 8.5 (6 – 21) 10 (-15 – 32) 11 (0 – 27) 10 (-15 – 32) 0.850
p = 0.049 p = 0.089 p = 0.001 p < 0.001
11.8 ± 11.6 (4) 6.5 ± 13.9 (8) 10.5 ± 13.4 (11) 10.9 ± 12.2 (29)
Stroop 12.5 (-3 – 25) 3.5 (-10 – 29) 2 (-2 – 39) 10 (-10 – 39) 0.750
p = 0.137 p = 0.227 p = 0.026 p < 0.001
7.5 ± 9.6 (4) -2.6 ± 37.5 (8) 13.3 ± 23.2 (11) 8.6 ± 25.3 (29)
TOVAVar 5 (0 – 20) -1.5 (-70 – 45) 1 (-30 – 48) 8 (-70 – 48) 0.482
p = 0.215 p = 0.849 p = 0.086 p = 0.078
29 ± 39 (4) 19 ± 17 (8) 34 ± 39 (11) 28 ± 32 (29)
QOL 18 (-3 – 82) 23 (-12 – 40) 27 (-37 – 78) 24 (-37 – 96) 0.618
p = 0.238 p = 0.018 p = 0.016 p < 0.001
-7.5 ± 7.9 (4) -5.5 ± 2.7 (8) -10.4 ± 8.5 (11) -7.9 ± 6.8 (29)
PHQ9Dep -5 (-19 – -1) -5 (-9 – -2) -14 (-21 – 5) -7 (-21 – 5) 0.335
p = 0.155 p < 0.001 p = 0.002 p < 0.001
-4.5 ± 4.4 (4) -4.8 ± 5.0 (8) -7.6 ± 7.8 (11) -5.4 ± 5.9 (29)
GAD7Anx -4 (-10 – 0) -3.5 (-13 – 1) -12 (-14 – 4) -5 (-14 – 4) 0.556
p = 0.135 p = 0.031 p = 0.009 p < 0.001
12.5 ± 15.5 (4) 15.0 ± 20.7 (8) 23.0 ± 15.6 (11) 20.4 ± 17.4 (29)
CogPBN 12.5 (-5 – 30) 12.5 (-10 – 50) 15 (5 – 50) 15 (-10 – 50) 0.483
p = 0.206 p = 0.080 p < 0.001 p < 0.001
16.3 ± 18.0 (4) 18.8 ± 15.3 (8) 22.7 ± 16.9 (11) 20.7 ± 16.2 (29)
PhysPBN 22.5 (-10 – 30) 20 (0 – 50) 20 (0 – 55) 20 (-10 – 55) 0.763
p = 0.168 p = 0.010 p = 0.001 p < 0.001
26.3 ± 14.9 (4) 21.6 ± 8.4 (8) 37.1 ± 16.7 (11) 31.1 ± 18.9 (29)
EmoPBN 25 (10 – 45) 25 (8 – 30) 30 (10 – 60) 30 (5 – 80) 0.075
p = 0.039 p < 0.001 p < 0.001 p < 0.001
15.3 ± 30.5 (4) 0.9 ± 42.9 (8) 10.2 ± 13.5 (11) 8.0 ± 27.8 (29)
Inatt 0 (0 – 61) 0 (-62 – 60) 8 (-7 – 39) 0 (-62 – 61) 0.687
p = 0.391 p = 0.956 p = 0.031 p = 0.134
21.5 ± 32.1 (4) 15.5 ± 22.1 (8) 5.5 ± 14.2 (11) 11.9 ± 20.2 (29)
Impls 22 (-18 – 60) 14.5 (-25 – 54) 4 (-14 – 30) 8 (-25 – 60) 0.357
p = 0.273 p = 0.088 p = 0.233 p = 0.004
2.3 ± 12.9 (4) -8.0 ± 16.5 (8) 3.6 ± 17.4 (11) 3.5 ± 18.2 (29)
RxTm 4.5 (-14 – 14) -4 (-32 – 17) 8 (-20 – 29) 5 (-32 – 43) 0.314
p = 0.750 p = 0.213 p = 0.505 p = 0.312
4.8 ± 6.2 (4) 4.8 ± 7.5 (8) 5.3 ± 12.5 (11) 6.4 ± 16.0 (29)
TapD 3 (0 – 13) 6 (-11 – 13) 5 (-19 – 24) 5 (-20 – 68) 0.992
p = 0.222 p = 0.115 p = 0.193 p = 0.040
3.3 ± 10.5 (4) -0.1 ± 11.3 (8) 5.0 ± 10.5 (11) 4.5 ± 14.7 (29)
TapND 6.5 (-12 – 12) 2 (-18 – 18) 1 (-7 – 30) 1 (-18 – 57) 0.600
p = 0.580 p = 0.976 p = 0.147 p = 0.111
13.3 ± 11.0 (4) 3.4 ± 14.5 (8) 14.1 ± 13.9 (11) 11.2 ± 13.9 (29)
PegD 14 (0 – 25) 1 (-14 – 33) 13 (-10 – 33) 9 (-14 – 33) 0.242
p = 0.096 p = 0.532 p = 0.007 p < 0.001
2.3 ± 3.3 (4) -4.5 ± 14.1 (8) 11.0 ± 13.9 (11) 4.2 ± 13.6 (29)
PegND 1 (0 – 7) -3 (-30 – 13) 6 (-7 – 36) 3 (-30 – 36) 0.054
p = 0.266 p = 0.396 p = 0.025 p = 0.105
-2.3 ± 8.5 (4) -1.3 ± 2.8 (8) -1.0 ± 5.1 (11) -0.9 ± 4.6 (29)
Parag -0.5 (-14 – 6) -0.5 (-5 – 2) -2 (-11 – 8) -1 (-14 – 8) 0.917
p = 0.633 p = 0.242 p = 0.532 p = 0.324
-12.3 ± 6.5 (4) -10.6 ± 6.5 (8) -14.5 ± 13.4 (11) -13.5 ± 10.4 (29)
RPCSQ -14 (-18 – -3) -10.5 (-20 – 1) -14 (-38 – 12) -13 (-38 – 12) 0.736
p = 0.033 p = 0.003 p = 0.005 p < 0.001
-15.0 ± 12.0 (4) -9.8 ± 9.5 (8) -19.7 ± 20.9 (11) -16.6 ± 16.2 (29)
PCLM -14.5 (-30 – -1) -9 (-27 – 2) -23 (-54 – 10) -16 (-54 – 10) 0.442
p = 0.088 p = 0.023 p = 0.011 p < 0.001
0.00 ± 2.17 (4) -0.39 ± 1.59 (29)
-0.14 ± 2.02 (8) -0.55 ± 1.11 (11)
0.46 (-3.03 – -0.14 (-3.96 –
LG030 0.22 (-3.96 – 2.5) -0.68 (-2 – 1.86) 0.799
2.11) 2.5)
p = 0.856 p = 0.135
p = 0.997 p = 0.198
-0.98 ± 1.11 (4) 0.10 ± 1.48 (8) -0.69 ± 1.23 (29)
-1.10 ± 1.11 (11)
-1.36 (-1.85 – 0.36 (-2.29 – -0.86 (-2.7 –
LG060 -1.19 (-2.7 – 0.44) 0.127
0.64) 2.27) 2.27)
p = 0.008
p = 0.175 p = 0.856 p = 0.005
-0.26 ± 0.39 (4) 0.51 ± 2.65 (8)
-0.41 ± 1.39 (11) -0.09 ± 1.75 (29)
-0.38 (-0.57 – 0.96 (-3.71 –
LG090 0 (-2.74 – 1.38) 0 (-3.71 – 3.66) 0.563
0.31) 3.66)
p = 0.355 p = 0.779
p = 0.276 p = 0.603
-1.63 ± 0.63 (4) -0.27 ± 2.12 (29)
0.84 ± 1.51 (8) -0.77 ± 2.38 (11)
-1.58 (-2.43 – - -0.8 (-3.33 –
LG120 0.7 (-0.99 – 3.46) -1.43 (-3.33 – 2.7) 0.093
0.91) 4.54)
p = 0.157 p = 0.311
p = 0.014 p = 0.491
-2.12 ± 2.30 (4) 0.03 ± 2.16 (8)
0.02 ± 1.73 (11) -0.47 ± 2.21 (29)
-2.68 (-3.96 – 0.32 (-3.34 –
LG150 0.47 (-2.85 – 2.1) 0.19 (-4.6 – 3.55) 0.169
0.84) 3.08)
p = 0.964 p = 0.265
p = 0.162 p = 0.969
-1.00 ± 0.89 (4) 0.27 ± 0.93 (8) -0.56 ± 0.86 (11) -0.38 ± 0.95 (29)
-0.74 (-2.27 – - 0.31 (-1.04 – -0.61 (-1.77 – -0.57 (-2.27 –
LGAll 0.058
0.24) 1.66) 0.73) 1.66)
p = 0.111 p = 0.440 p = 0.057 p = 0.039
0.08 ± 1.44 (4) -0.54 ± 2.75 (29)
-1.87 ± 3.39 (8) -0.22 ± 2.79 (11)
0.37 (-1.89 – -0.7 (-7.97 –
LW060 -1 (-7.97 – 2.99) -0.7 (-4.22 – 4.85) 0.399
1.48) 4.85)
p = 0.163 p = 0.800
p = 0.916 p = 0.303
-1.68 ± 2.25 (4) -1.66 ± 1.53 (8) -0.89 ± 3.22 (11) -1.06 ± 2.74 (29)
-1.28 (-4.45 – -2.12 (-3.09 – -0.43 (-6.12 – -0.87 (-6.12 –
LW120 0.775
0.31) 1.67) 3.81) 4.88)
p = 0.233 p = 0.018 p = 0.383 p = 0.046
-0.80 ± 0.80 (4) -1.76 ± 2.03 (8) -0.55 ± 2.61 (11) -0.80 ± 2.23 (29)
-0.66 (-1.88 – -1.59 (-5.26 – -0.01 (-4.62 – -0.79 (-5.26 –
LWAll 0.503
0.02) 0.82) 3.11) 3.11)
p = 0.140 p = 0.044 p = 0.498 p = 0.064
-0.75 ± 1.64 (11) -0.28 ± 1.52 (29)
-0.38 ± 2.41 (4) 0.12 ± 1.16 (8)
-1.28 (-2.32 – -0.57 (-3.84 –
RG030 0.3 (-3.84 – 1.74) 0.1 (-1.6 – 1.81) 0.528
3.19) 3.19)
p = 0.775 p = 0.770
p = 0.160 p = 0.333
0.59 ± 2.54 (4) 0.06 ± 0.79 (8) -0.79 ± 1.01 (11) -0.40 ± 1.33 (29)
0.66 (-2.37 – -0.08 (-1.27 – -1.05 (-1.97 – -0.51 (-2.7 –
RG060 0.159
3.38) 1.4) 1.49) 3.38)
p = 0.675 p = 0.827 p = 0.026 p = 0.114
1.00 ± 1.64 (4) 0.10 ± 1.14 (8) 0.08 ± 1.32 (29)
-0.38 ± 1.40 (11)
0.49 (-0.32 – -0.23 (-0.86 – 0.04 (-3.53 –
RG090 0.02 (-3.53 – 1.24) 0.236
3.35) 2.37) 3.35)
p = 0.386
p = 0.308 p = 0.807 p = 0.736
0.28 ± 1.72 (8) -0.06 ± 1.80 (29)
0.02 ± 0.61 (4) 0.09 ± 2.11 (11)
-0.13 (-2.29 – 0.05 (-4.63 –
RG120 0.1 (-0.75 – 0.61) 0.05 (-4.63 – 2.75) 0.964
2.58) 2.75)
p = 0.960 p = 0.890
p = 0.662 p = 0.851
-0.18 ± 1.76 (4) -0.71 ± 1.64 (8) -0.10 ± 1.37 (11) -0.32 ± 1.35 (29)
-0.29 (-1.96 – -0.45 (-2.84 – -0.64 (-2.24 – -0.46 (-2.84 –
RG150 0.679
1.82) 1.97) 1.61) 1.97)
p = 0.852 p = 0.260 p = 0.820 p = 0.217
0.21 ± 0.70 (4) -0.03 ± 0.59 (8) -0.39 ± 0.55 (11) -0.20 ± 0.59 (29)
0.25 (-0.58 – 0.26 (-1.25 – -0.42 (-0.97 – -0.3 (-1.25 –
RGAll 0.190
0.91) 0.41) 0.62) 0.91)
p = 0.588 p = 0.896 p = 0.041 p = 0.087
-1.61 ± 2.83 (8) -1.46 ± 3.79 (11) -1.19 ± 2.92 (29)
0.09 ± 1.93 (4)
-1.01 (-6.92 – -1.71 (-6.58 – -1.25 (-6.92 –
RW060 -0.06 (-2.02 – 2.5) 0.666
3.01) 5.58) 5.58)
p = 0.932
p = 0.151 p = 0.229 p = 0.037
0.99 ± 4.10 (4) -0.07 ± 3.23 (8)
-0.83 ± 2.38 (11) -0.42 ± 2.73 (29)
1.63 (-4.34 – 0.22 (-3.97 –
RW120 0.76 (-4.6 – 1.33) 0.1 (-4.6 – 5.55) 0.578
5.06) 5.55)
p = 0.274 p = 0.413
p = 0.661 p = 0.950
0.54 ± 2.99 (4) -0.84 ± 2.69 (8) -0.80 ± 2.30 (29)
-1.15 ± 2.24 (11)
0.78 (-3.18 – -0.95 (-4.59 – -1.03 (-4.59 –
RWAll -1.12 (-4.07 – 3.4) 0.526
3.78) 4.28) 4.28)
p = 0.120
p = 0.741 p = 0.404 p = 0.070
Change in NeuroPsych and SPECT var’s, by Post-HBOT Sleep
Improvement
This document presents the results of statistical analyses carried out on the final data set.
All descriptive tables present summaries in the following formats:
for numerical variables:
Mean ± Standard Deviation (Number of Subjects)
Median (Minimum – Maximum)
for numerical variables representing changes between two time points:
Mean Change ± Standard Deviation of Changes (Number of Subjects)
Median Change (Minimum Change – Maximum Change)
p value for significance of change
for categorical variables:
Count (Percentage of Total)
The designation (np) appearing after or below a p value indicates that a non-parametric
test (like the Mann-Whitney U test) was performed instead of the classical test (like the
Student t test).
Nominally significant p values (p ≤ 0.05) are highlighted in red text;
p values approaching significance (p<0.10) are highlighted in orange text.
No adjustments for multiplicity were applied, so each p value has a 1-in-20 chance of
being significant (p≤0.05) purely from random fluctuations alone, in the absence of any
real effect.
To conserve horizontal space in the tables, variables are identified by brief names.
Baseline / Demographics
The analytical population of 29 subjects was divided into two groups based on whether
the severity of the injury was considered Mild (up to 30 minutes of unconsciousness) or
Moderate (30 or more minutes of unconsciousness). The p value in the rightmost column
of the table indicates whether the variable was significantly different between mildly
injured and moderately injured patients.
Section of Brain Pre to 1 day Post Pre to 40 days Post 1 day to 40 days Post
47 ± 328 (29) -37 ± 454 (29) -83 ± 421 (29)
Left Gray 030 1 (-701 – 650) -116 (-824 – 1,132) -38 (-856 – 1,165)
p = 0.450 p = 0.667 p = 0.295
42 ± 353 (29) -29 ± 492 (29) -70 ± 406 (29)
Left Gray 060 22 (-725 – 747) -67 (-1,029 – 1,133) -79 (-844 – 1,113)
p = 0.531 p = 0.756 p = 0.359
70 ± 343 (29) -0 ± 487 (29) -70 ± 394 (29)
Left Gray 090 69 (-561 – 774) -36 (-815 – 1,102) -37 (-839 – 941)
p = 0.282 p = 1.000 p = 0.347
80 ± 342 (29) -27 ± 455 (29) -107 ± 417 (29)
Left Gray 120 51 (-811 – 787) -115 (-792 – 923) -56 (-806 – 946)
p = 0.218 p = 0.749 p = 0.177
62 ± 388 (29) -4 ± 506 (29) -66 ± 419 (29)
Left Gray 150 56 (-603 – 959) -104 (-876 – 1,017) -122 (-781 – 1,069)
p = 0.396 p = 0.966 p = 0.404
60 ± 337 (29) -19 ± 470 (29) -79 ± 403 (29)
Left Gray All 20 (-652 – 676) -67 (-845 – 1,012) -36 (-791 – 1,047)
p = 0.346 p = 0.826 p = 0.298
152 ± 239 (29) 38 ± 343 (29) -114 ± 281 (29)
Left White 060 188 (-384 – 637) -27 (-680 – 691) -109 (-583 – 638)
p = 0.002 p = 0.553 p = 0.038
131 ± 206 (29) 16 ± 318 (29) -114 ± 277 (29)
Left White 120 197 (-367 – 430) -27 (-560 – 731) -76 (-594 – 439)
p = 0.002 p = 0.784 p = 0.034
141 ± 215 (29) 27 ± 326 (29) -114 ± 272 (29)
Left White All 170 (-376 – 504) -37 (-620 – 711) -71 (-566 – 531)
p = 0.001 p = 0.656 p = 0.032
32 ± 319 (29) -43 ± 464 (29) -75 ± 413 (29)
Right Gray 030 -8 (-591 – 739) -92 (-883 – 1,126) -61 (-955 – 1,089)
p = 0.591 p = 0.622 p = 0.335
57 ± 332 (29) -30 ± 461 (29) -88 ± 382 (29)
Right Gray 060 8 (-666 – 727) -123 (-764 – 887) -65 (-716 – 857)
p = 0.361 p = 0.725 p = 0.227
59 ± 310 (29) -4 ± 475 (29) -62 ± 412 (29)
Right Gray 090 46 (-575 – 722) -29 (-793 – 1,001) -23 (-835 – 1,030)
p = 0.318 p = 0.969 p = 0.424
79 ± 288 (29) 10 ± 455 (29) -69 ± 389 (29)
Right Gray 120 56 (-667 – 605) 4 (-812 – 1,061) -76 (-794 – 893)
p = 0.153 p = 0.906 p = 0.350
37 ± 380 (29) 12 ± 518 (29) -24 ± 434 (29)
Right Gray 150 55 (-908 – 795) -8 (-1,024 – 1,160) -1 (-942 – 999)
p = 0.608 p = 0.898 p = 0.766
Section of Brain Pre to 1 day Post Pre to 40 days Post 1 day to 40 days Post
53 ± 312 (29) -11 ± 467 (29) -64 ± 397 (29)
Right Gray All 19 (-671 – 689) -31 (-796 – 971) -54 (-782 – 974)
p = 0.372 p = 0.901 p = 0.396
104 ± 185 (29) 3 ± 324 (29) -102 ± 268 (29)
Right White 060 134 (-320 – 428) 9 (-765 – 677) -71 (-568 – 543)
p = 0.005 p = 0.966 p = 0.050
127 ± 216 (29) 21 ± 316 (29) -107 ± 286 (29)
Right White 120 158 (-596 – 558) -11 (-670 – 571) -88 (-723 – 486)
p = 0.004 p = 0.726 p = 0.054
116 ± 192 (29) 12 ± 311 (29) -104 ± 270 (29)
Right White All 156 (-458 – 429) 18 (-717 – 607) -77 (-622 – 514)
p = 0.003 p = 0.842 p = 0.047
5B. Summary of SPECT SD by Region of Brain, in Military Subjects
Changes Between Pre-HBOT, 1-day Post-HBOT, 40-days Post-HBOT
Section of Brain Pre to 1 day Post Pre to 40 days Post 1 day to 40 days Post
-6.8 ± 28.4 (29) -6.6 ± 27.4 (29) 0.2 ± 24.1 (29)
Left Gray 030 -10 (-46.5 – 56) -8.7 (-69.4 – 37) 1.7 (-61.3 – 58)
p = 0.210 p = 0.207 p = 0.965
-6 ± 33 (29) -11.0 ± 26.3 (29) -4.7 ± 26.6 (29)
Left Gray 060 -7 (-60 – 50) -11.6 (-61.6 – 37.9) -6.4 (-75.9 – 44.9)
p = 0.309 p = 0.033 p = 0.353
-4 ± 39 (29) -2.4 ± 27.5 (29) 2 ± 31 (29)
Left Gray 090 1 (-69 – 81) 7.2 (-51.4 – 37.2) 1 (-77 – 51)
p = 0.579 p = 0.643 p = 0.773
-5.1 ± 26.3 (29) -6 ± 37 (29) -0.9 ± 28.2 (29)
Left Gray 120 -2.3 (-58.7 – 56.7) -7 (-83 – 77) -2.2 (-41.9 – 60.8)
p = 0.301 p = 0.382 p = 0.865
-13 ± 39 (29) -11 ± 48 (29) 2.3 ± 28.1 (29)
Left Gray 150 -9 (-107 – 78) -3 (-122 – 81) -1 (-62.3 – 57)
p = 0.083 p = 0.240 p = 0.666
-7.0 ± 23.8 (29) -7.3 ± 22.5 (29) -0.3 ± 17.0 (29)
Left Gray All -13.6 (-50.2 – 48) -9.3 (-48.1 – 41.3) -0.2 (-37.6 – 29.7)
p = 0.123 p = 0.090 p = 0.928
4 ± 36 (29) -1.8 ± 27.7 (29) -6 ± 39 (29)
Left White 060 5 (-78 – 78) -6.5 (-58.6 – 81.8) -11 (-86 – 83)
p = 0.575 p = 0.730 p = 0.448
-1.4 ± 28.0 (29) -8.0 ± 30.0 (29) -6.7 ± 28.7 (29)
Left White 120 2.8 (-71.9 – 46.6) -11.7 (-62.5 – 45) -12.3 (-67.5 – 63.8)
p = 0.796 p = 0.161 p = 0.222
1.2 ± 23.0 (29) -4.9 ± 24.8 (29) -6.1 ± 25.2 (29)
Left White All -1.7 (-35.7 – 47.7) -6.6 (-49.4 – 60.5) -8.2 (-40.5 – 72.9)
p = 0.779 p = 0.296 p = 0.203
-4.3 ± 24.3 (29) -6.3 ± 22.8 (29) -1.9 ± 19.2 (29)
Right Gray 030 -5.3 (-54.4 – 49.7) -6.1 (-53.8 – 25.6) -0.8 (-38.4 – 39.5)
p = 0.345 p = 0.151 p = 0.594
-3.7 ± 23.6 (29) -7.5 ± 20.2 (29) -3.7 ± 18.9 (29)
Right Gray 060 -2.2 (-45.2 – 51.7) -6.2 (-59.1 – 40.5) -2.2 (-37.9 – 31.1)
p = 0.405 p = 0.057 p = 0.295
-3 ± 30 (29) 2 ± 30 (29) 4.7 ± 28.9 (29)
Right Gray 090 1 (-67 – 74) -6 (-46 – 63) -3.6 (-48.6 – 55.4)
p = 0.625 p = 0.737 p = 0.391
-4 ± 33 (29) 0 ± 35 (29) 4 ± 35 (29)
Right Gray 120 -7 (-102 – 52) -4 (-99 – 64) 3 (-66 – 93)
p = 0.542 p = 0.996 p = 0.564
-1.9 ± 28.2 (29) -5.7 ± 23.9 (29) -4 ± 31 (29)
Right Gray 150 -7.6 (-44.9 – 83.6) -11.8 (-36.9 – 49.1) -3 (-85 – 66)
p = 0.714 p = 0.213 p = 0.524
-3.3 ± 17.8 (29) -3.5 ± 15.9 (29) -0.2 ± 18.2 (29)
Right Gray All -2.7 (-35.5 – 36.6) -6.2 (-45.9 – 30.6) -2.2 (-29.3 – 47.1)
p = 0.325 p = 0.249 p = 0.958
-5 ± 36 (29) -13 ± 33 (29) -8 ± 33 (29)
Right White 060 -5 (-75 – 77) -7 (-92 – 42) -6 (-68 – 61)
p = 0.451 p = 0.037 p = 0.186
0.1 ± 21.0 (29) -4.1 ± 22.1 (29) -4.2 ± 24.2 (29)
Right White 120 -5.2 (-29.7 – 45.1) -4.7 (-47.1 – 30.8) -3.5 (-58.4 – 41.7)
p = 0.972 p = 0.331 p = 0.358
-2.5 ± 23.1 (29) -8.6 ± 21.8 (29) -6.2 ± 23.1 (29)
Right White All -7.1 (-43.1 – 45.1) -5.6 (-64.6 – 30.9) -5.5 (-57.4 – 33.1)
p = 0.572 p = 0.042 p = 0.161
5C. Summary of SPECT CV by Region of Brain, in Military Subjects
Changes Between Pre-HBOT, 1-day Post-HBOT, 40-days Post-HBOT
Section of Brain Pre to 1 day Post Pre to 40 days Post 1 day to 40 days Post
-0.65 ± 1.71 (29) -0.39 ± 1.59 (29) 0.26 ± 1.40 (29)
Left Gray 030 -0.53 (-4.4 – 3.32) -0.14 (-3.96 – 2.5) 0.25 (-3.25 – 4.06)
p = 0.050 p = 0.198 p = 0.329
-0.54 ± 1.61 (29) -0.69 ± 1.23 (29) -0.15 ± 1.31 (29)
Left Gray 060 -0.61 (-3.25 – 2.24) -0.86 (-2.7 – 2.27) -0.1 (-2.82 – 1.92)
p = 0.080 p = 0.005 p = 0.544
-0.45 ± 1.95 (29) -0.09 ± 1.75 (29) 0.36 ± 1.72 (29)
Left Gray 090 -0.51 (-4.8 – 3.19) 0 (-3.71 – 3.66) 0.31 (-3.45 – 3.13)
p = 0.225 p = 0.779 p = 0.272
-0.44 ± 1.41 (29) -0.27 ± 2.12 (29) 0.16 ± 1.69 (29)
Left Gray 120 -0.44 (-3.04 – 2.76) -0.8 (-3.33 – 4.54) -0.03 (-3.41 – 3.42)
p = 0.107 p = 0.491 p = 0.609
-0.79 ± 1.78 (29) -0.47 ± 2.21 (29) 0.32 ± 1.97 (29)
Left Gray 150 -0.47 (-3.95 – 3.38) 0.19 (-4.6 – 3.55) 0.26 (-4.11 – 4.71)
p = 0.024 p = 0.265 p = 0.389
-0.57 ± 1.01 (29) -0.38 ± 0.95 (29) 0.19 ± 0.93 (29)
Left Gray All -0.82 (-2.17 – 1.34) -0.57 (-2.27 – 1.66) 0.31 (-2.13 – 1.84)
p = 0.005 p = 0.039 p = 0.282
-0.4 ± 3.6 (29) -0.54 ± 2.75 (29) -0.1 ± 3.3 (29)
Left White 060 -0.2 (-10.1 – 6.1) -0.7 (-7.97 – 4.85) 0.4 (-6.1 – 6.6)
p = 0.526 p = 0.303 p = 0.861
-0.89 ± 2.81 (29) -1.06 ± 2.74 (29) -0.18 ± 2.78 (29)
Left White 120 -0.28 (-7.88 – 3.36) -0.87 (-6.12 – 4.88) -0.29 (-6 – 5.82)
p = 0.100 p = 0.046 p = 0.736
-0.66 ± 2.27 (29) -0.80 ± 2.23 (29) -0.14 ± 2.05 (29)
Left White All -0.38 (-6.48 – 2.72) -0.79 (-5.26 – 3.11) -0.25 (-3.75 – 5.87)
p = 0.130 p = 0.064 p = 0.711
-0.32 ± 1.45 (29) -0.28 ± 1.52 (29) 0.04 ± 1.34 (29)
Right Gray 030 -0.02 (-3.62 – 2.3) -0.57 (-3.84 – 3.19) -0.08 (-2.69 – 2.57)
p = 0.245 p = 0.333 p = 0.869
-0.44 ± 1.18 (29) -0.40 ± 1.33 (29) 0.04 ± 1.04 (29)
Right Gray 060 -0.43 (-2.86 – 2.11) -0.51 (-2.7 – 3.38) 0.29 (-2.37 – 2.35)
p = 0.055 p = 0.114 p = 0.856
-0.30 ± 1.80 (29) 0.08 ± 1.32 (29) 0.39 ± 1.47 (29)
Right Gray 090 -0.16 (-4.61 – 5.23) 0.04 (-3.53 – 3.35) 0.19 (-2.14 – 3.39)
p = 0.370 p = 0.736 p = 0.165
-0.46 ± 1.90 (29) -0.06 ± 1.80 (29) 0.40 ± 1.95 (29)
Right Gray 120 -0.8 (-6.34 – 2.3) 0.05 (-4.63 – 2.75) 0.35 (-3.81 – 5.12)
p = 0.204 p = 0.851 p = 0.285
-0.20 ± 1.33 (29) -0.32 ± 1.35 (29) -0.11 ± 1.87 (29)
Right Gray 150 -0.17 (-2.36 – 2.41) -0.46 (-2.84 – 1.97) 0.11 (-4.38 – 3.46)
p = 0.415 p = 0.217 p = 0.745
-0.34 ± 0.83 (29) -0.20 ± 0.59 (29) 0.15 ± 0.94 (29)
Right Gray All -0.19 (-2.42 – 1.34) -0.3 (-1.25 – 0.91) 0.14 (-2.59 – 2.08)
p = 0.033 p = 0.087 p = 0.398
-1.0 ± 3.4 (29) -1.19 ± 2.92 (29) -0.2 ± 3.2 (29)
Right White 060 -1.6 (-6.6 – 6.8) -1.25 (-6.92 – 5.58) 0 (-6.6 – 7)
p = 0.127 p = 0.037 p = 0.742
-0.85 ± 1.95 (29) -0.42 ± 2.73 (29) 0.43 ± 2.54 (29)
Right White 120 -0.94 (-5.04 – 2.98) 0.1 (-4.6 – 5.55) -0.06 (-5.24 – 5.19)
p = 0.027 p = 0.413 p = 0.373
-0.92 ± 2.07 (29) -0.80 ± 2.30 (29) 0.12 ± 2.26 (29)
Right White All -1.44 (-4.15 – 3.62) -1.03 (-4.59 – 4.28) 0.01 (-4.76 – 5.32)
p = 0.024 p = 0.070 p = 0.786
Additional File 5: Approach of SPECT MCP and CV at baseline, post-1 HBOT,
and post-40 HBOTs to Control Subjects’ MCP and CV
This document summarizes the SPECT values in each brain region, by time point for the
Affected subjects (at pre-, 1 day post-, and 40 days post-HBOT), and compares them to
the values in Control subjects.
Data is summarized in tables as mean, standard deviation, and standard error of the mean,
along with a p-value comparing the Affected subjects’ values with the Control subjects’
values.
Data is also shown as bar charts (with vertical error-bars representing ± 1 SEM).
Approach of Left Gray 30 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1543.167 1589.824 1506.506 1610.534
SDs 322.278 55.995 60.376 45.570
SEs 59.846 55.995 60.376 45.570
Ps 0.375 0.775 0.175 NA
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 60 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1575.351 1616.872 1546.638 1666.225
SDs 333.209 52.451 62.154 48.178
SEs 61.875 52.451 62.154 48.178
Ps 0.252 0.491 0.134 NA
p=0.252 p=0.491
p=0.134
1500
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 90 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1555.488 1625.365 1555.453 1591.109
SDs 321.329 52.813 65.103 46.788
SEs 59.669 52.813 65.103 46.788
Ps 0.640 0.629 0.658 NA
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 120 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1572.100 1652.107 1544.818 1631.993
SDs 313.021 52.903 60.154 50.770
SEs 58.127 52.903 60.154 50.770
Ps 0.441 0.785 0.273 NA
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 150 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1682.103 1744.147 1678.112 1733.739
SDs 376.305 52.165 63.960 54.157
SEs 69.878 52.165 63.960 54.157
Ps 0.562 0.890 0.510 NA
1500
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray All MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1585.642 1645.663 1566.305 1646.72
SDs 322.110 51.240 61.101 47.78
SEs 59.814 51.240 61.101 47.78
Ps 0.428 0.988 0.305 NA
1500
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left White 60 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 968.348 1120.487 1006.614 1071.135
SDs 238.044 40.266 50.116 43.683
SEs 44.204 40.266 50.116 43.683
Ps 0.104 0.410 0.336 NA
p=0.336
1000 p=0.104
800
600
400
200
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left White 120 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 932.891 1063.583 949.222 1043.482
SDs 238.181 35.736 48.765 41.611
SEs 44.229 35.736 48.765 41.611
Ps 0.074 0.715 0.147 NA
1000 p=0.147
p=0.074
800
600
400
200
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left White All MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 950.620 1092.035 977.918 1057.309
SDs 235.200 36.632 48.278 41.717
SEs 43.675 36.632 48.278 41.717
Ps 0.083 0.534 0.219 NA
p=0.219
1000 p=0.083
800
600
400
200
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 30 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1531.831 1564.062 1488.843 1590.379
SDs 319.316 54.050 63.849 50.819
SEs 59.295 54.050 63.849 50.819
Ps 0.457 0.724 0.219 NA
p=0.457 p=0.724
p=0.219
1500
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 60 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1565.632 1622.785 1535.245 1689.351
SDs 323.454 49.023 62.062 52.804
SEs 60.064 49.023 62.062 52.804
Ps 0.128 0.360 0.064 NA
p=0.360
p=0.128 p=0.064
1500
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 90 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1532.383 1590.989 1528.879 1609.977
SDs 306.877 46.348 65.354 50.807
SEs 56.986 46.348 65.354 50.807
Ps 0.314 0.783 0.332 NA
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 120 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1542.956 1621.686 1553.024 1647.138
SDs 281.786 49.038 65.854 52.456
SEs 52.326 49.038 65.854 52.456
Ps 0.165 0.724 0.269 NA
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 150 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1667.968 1704.606 1680.358 1737.094
SDs 322.761 56.552 69.608 48.968
SEs 59.935 56.552 69.608 48.968
Ps 0.376 0.666 0.508 NA
1500
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray All MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 1568.154 1620.825 1557.270 1654.788
SDs 302.218 48.988 63.985 49.652
SEs 56.120 48.988 63.985 49.652
Ps 0.253 0.628 0.234 NA
1000
500
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right White 60 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 973.645 1077.892 976.265 1084.157
SDs 220.437 39.030 45.931 45.253
SEs 40.934 39.030 45.931 45.253
Ps 0.076 0.917 0.100 NA
p=0.076 p=0.100
1000
800
600
400
200
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right White 120 MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 901.384 1028.615 922.090 1042.945
SDs 251.012 37.458 49.612 41.470
SEs 46.612 37.458 49.612 41.470
Ps 0.027 0.799 0.067 NA
p=0.799
1000
p=0.027 p=0.067
800
600
400
200
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right White All MCP to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mns 937.515 1053.254 949.178 1063.551
SDs 225.121 36.749 46.977 41.737
SEs 41.804 36.749 46.977 41.737
Ps 0.037 0.854 0.074 NA
p=0.854
800
600
400
200
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 30 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.545 2.897 3.156 3.391
S.D. 1.492 0.210 0.241 0.188
S.E.M. 0.277 0.210 0.241 0.188
P Value 0.647 0.086 0.445 NA
4 p=0.647
p=0.445
p=0.086
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 60 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 4.038 3.496 3.347 3.913
S.D. 1.160 0.225 0.172 0.254
S.E.M. 0.215 0.225 0.172 0.254
P Value 0.708 0.224 0.071 NA
p=0.708
4 p=0.224
p=0.071
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 90 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.639 3.189 3.546 4.087
S.D. 1.598 0.222 0.229 0.321
S.E.M. 0.297 0.222 0.229 0.321
P Value 0.310 0.026 0.176 NA
p=0.310
4 p=0.176
p=0.026
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 120 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.328 2.891 3.053 3.420
S.D. 1.035 0.223 0.273 0.274
S.E.M. 0.192 0.223 0.273 0.274
P Value 0.783 0.140 0.347 NA
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray 150 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 4.002 3.215 3.536 3.201
S.D. 1.609 0.222 0.344 0.238
S.E.M. 0.299 0.222 0.344 0.238
P Value 0.041 0.966 0.428 NA
p=0.041
p=0.428
4
p=0.966
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left Gray All CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.710 3.138 3.328 3.603
S.D. 0.647 0.141 0.125 0.161
S.E.M. 0.120 0.141 0.125 0.161
P Value 0.594 0.034 0.183 NA
4 p=0.594
p=0.183
p=0.034
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left White 60 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 5.853 5.427 5.318 5.320
S.D. 2.694 0.439 0.464 0.439
S.E.M. 0.500 0.439 0.464 0.439
P Value 0.427 0.864 0.997 NA
6 p=0.864 p=0.997
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left White 120 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 5.872 4.984 4.808 4.550
S.D. 2.118 0.312 0.428 0.335
S.E.M. 0.393 0.312 0.428 0.335
P Value 0.013 0.348 0.638 NA
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Left White All CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 5.863 5.205 5.063 4.935
S.D. 1.855 0.247 0.336 0.285
S.E.M. 0.344 0.247 0.336 0.285
P Value 0.043 0.477 0.774 NA
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 30 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.150 2.831 2.872 3.113
S.D. 0.986 0.178 0.180 0.196
S.E.M. 0.183 0.178 0.180 0.196
P Value 0.891 0.291 0.370 NA
3.5 p=0.891
p=0.291 p=0.370
3.0
2.5
2.0
1.5
1.0
0.5
0.0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 60 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.514 3.076 3.111 3.530
S.D. 1.024 0.179 0.168 0.254
S.E.M. 0.190 0.179 0.168 0.254
P Value 0.959 0.150 0.175 NA
4
p=0.959
p=0.150 p=0.175
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 90 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.923 3.618 4.006 3.496
S.D. 1.192 0.242 0.225 0.232
S.E.M. 0.221 0.242 0.225 0.232
P Value 0.190 0.718 0.121 NA
p=0.190 p=0.121
4 p=0.718
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 120 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.482 3.024 3.419 3.042
S.D. 1.376 0.275 0.205 0.194
S.E.M. 0.255 0.275 0.205 0.194
P Value 0.175 0.958 0.186 NA
4 p=0.175
p=0.186
p=0.958
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray 150 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.648 3.444 3.331 2.739
S.D. 1.435 0.248 0.246 0.157
S.E.M. 0.266 0.248 0.246 0.157
P Value 0.005 0.020 0.048 NA
p=0.005
4
p=0.020
p=0.048
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right Gray All CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 3.543 3.199 3.348 3.184
S.D. 0.592 0.136 0.111 0.084
S.E.M. 0.110 0.136 0.111 0.084
P Value 0.012 0.928 0.245 NA
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right White 60 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 6.523 5.533 5.336 4.991
S.D. 2.243 0.518 0.434 0.391
S.E.M. 0.417 0.518 0.434 0.391
P Value 0.010 0.408 0.557 NA
p=0.408
6 p=0.557
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right White 120 CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 5.758 4.910 5.337 4.182
S.D. 1.892 0.309 0.399 0.332
S.E.M. 0.351 0.309 0.399 0.332
P Value 0.002 0.114 0.030 NA
p=0.114
5
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Approach of Right White All CV to Values in Control Subjects
Pre-HBOT Post 1 Post 40 Control
Mean 6.141 5.222 5.337 4.587
S.D. 1.521 0.321 0.368 0.221
S.E.M. 0.283 0.321 0.368 0.221
P Value 0.000 0.109 0.087 NA
6 p=0.087
p=0.109
0
Pre-HBOT 1d Post 40d Post Normal
Additional Table 1: List and Schedule of Psychometric Measures, When
Administered, and Domain Measured
Instrument Pre Post Domain Measured
Combat Experience Scale (CES) X - Combat experience
Green Word Memory Test (WMT) X - Effort
Wechsler Test of Adult Reading (WTAR) X - Estimate premorbid IQ
Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) X X Alcohol use
Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) X X Drug use
Rivermead Post Concussion Symptom
X X PCS
Questionnaire (RPCSQ)
PTSD Checklist-Military (PCL-M) X X Rating PTSD
Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale IV (WAIS-IV)* X IQ
Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence
X IQ
(WASI)
Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) X X Attention
Attention, Executive
Stroop Test X X
function
Finger Tapping Test X X Motor speed
Grooved Pegboard X X Motor coordination
Memory, Executive
Wechsler Memory Scale IV (WMS-IV)* X X
functioin
Rivermead Paragraph Memory (Paragraph) X X Memory
Perceived Quality of Life (PQOL) X X Satisfaction
Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) X X Depression
Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) X X Anxiety
Percent Back To Normal Rating (PBTN) “Current Cognitive, Emotional,
X X
percent of normal premorbid level of function” Physical quality
*WAIS-III and WMS III were used on the first 5 subjects, WAIS-IV and WMS-IV on the remaining
subjects.