USF researchers are conducing a clinical research study using hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to treat symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI), with a focus on Florida veterans. The study will help determine if (HBOT) can ease the symptoms of (TBI) in Florida’s veteran, active duty, and reserve service members with PTSD.
Through a grant from the Florida Legislature with an initial allocation of $14 million, USF Health researchers will conduct a clinical trial to study the efficacy of HBOT on individuals with symptoms after a (TBI) with or without symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study seeks to clarify if HBOT will help individuals recover after TBI.
The USF Health-based clinical trial for HBOT will be a five-year, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study – the gold standard in academic research. The initial phase of the clinical trial is underway. The trial will have a national advisory panel of experts and collaborating with the James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital and other community leaders. The clinical trial is being led by Harry van Loveren, MD, professor and chair of the USF Health Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair.