Exploring Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Sep 14, 2024

Lecture Notes: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Stem Cells

Introduction

  • Dr. Paul Hart, an expert in emergency and hyperbaric medicine.
    • Clinical professor at LSU School of Medicine.
    • Developed largest case experience in neurological hyperbaric medicine.
    • Worked on global regrowth of brain tissue in humans.
    • Proposed HBOT for COVID-19 pneumonia in 2020.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

  • Definition: Treatment using increased pressure and oxygen.
    • Exploits organism sensitivity to pressure and oxygen.
    • Pressure is weight of air above us; increased underwater.
    • Operating range: sea level to deep diving.
  • Mechanism: Affects gene expression and chemical reactions.
    • Pressure affects every chemical reaction.
    • HBOT stimulates gene signaling for healing.
    • Significant impact on genome: 40% of genes affected in one treatment.

Applications

  • Wound Healing: Effective for various acute and chronic wound types.
    • US lists for reimbursement: decompression sickness, CO poisoning, diabetic foot wounds, etc.
  • Neurological Applications: Brain injuries, drowning cases, and neurological diseases.
    • Evidence of effects on cortical vision impairment, motor functions, inflammation reduction.

Stem Cells and HBOT

  • Stem Cell Basics: Undifferentiated cells capable of becoming any cell type.
    • Types: Hematopoietic, mesenchymal, neural.
  • HBOT's Role: Stimulates production, release, differentiation, and implantation of stem cells.
    • Increases circulating stem cells, promotes tissue growth, and supports healing.
  • Case Studies and Evidence:
    • Mice and human studies show improvements in wound healing, stroke, TBI, etc.
    • Combination of HBOT and stem cells show synergistic effects.

Challenges and Considerations

  • Medical Paternalism: Traditional views in neurology limit acceptance of HBOT.
  • Timing: Best results when administered soon after injury.
  • Barriers to Adoption: Lack of awareness and education among medical professionals.

Conclusion

  • HBOT is a powerful therapy impacting gene expression and stem cells.
  • Potential for broad applications in medicine, particularly in healing and regenerative therapies.
  • Integration with other therapies could provide enhanced outcomes.