Efficacy of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: A Comprehensive Evaluation Using Enhanced Depth Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to assess the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in patients with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) by analyzing changes in visual acuity (VA) and enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) parameters. Method Medical records of patients diagnosed with unilateral CRAO were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: those receiving HBOT in addition to standard treatment and those receiving standard treatment alone. Baseline characteristics were compared, and VA and OCT parameters were evaluated at baseline and follow-up visits. Results A total of 50 eyes from 50 patients were included, with 29 eyes in the HBOT group and 21 eyes in the control group. HBOT-treated patients showed significant improvements in VA than control group throughout the follow-up period. Central choroidal thickness increased significantly in the HBOT group. The central choroid, central fovea, and outer retinal layer thickness in the HBOT group were significantly greater than those in the control group at the 6-month follow-up after treatment. Conclusion HBOT appears to be effective in improving VA and inducing favorable changes in OCT parameters in patients with CRAO. Preservation of the choroid and outer retinal layer may contribute to the significant visual recovery observed in HBOT-treated patients.