The Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Idiopathic Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Case Study

Abstract

Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) is an otologic emergency that can provoke anxiety in the patient and can be clinically challenging for the practitioner. The natural history of the condition can be as varied as its possible etiologies. Adding to the clinical challenge is the current debate of treatment modalities available. In what follows, we provide a case detailing our treatment course, including the novel use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an emerging therapy for sensorineural hearing loss. Additionally, we provide a brief review of the current state of treatment options available in the armament for ISSHL. As no identifying information is contained in our discussion, we believe the privacy of the patient has been protected and, as such, feel our manuscript is exempt from prior Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval.

Keywords

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
• Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss