Arterial Insufficiencies: Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
Central retinal artery occlusion is a 'stroke of the eye' causing sudden vision loss. HBOT within hours can prevent permanent blindness.
What is Central Retinal Artery Occlusion?
Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) occurs when the main artery supplying blood to the retina becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot or embolus. This causes sudden, painless loss of vision in the affected eye.
The retina is extremely sensitive to oxygen deprivation. Without treatment, irreversible damage begins within 90-100 minutes. CRAO is a true ophthalmic emergency.
CRAO is often called an 'eye stroke' because it has similar causes and implications as a cerebral stroke—patients with CRAO should be evaluated for cardiovascular risk factors.
Symptoms
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention. Early intervention is critical for many of these conditions.
- Sudden, painless vision loss in one eye
- Vision may be described as a 'curtain' descending
- May notice a cherry-red spot on the retina
- Vision loss is usually severe (counting fingers or worse)
- No eye pain or redness
Emergency Ophthalmologic Care
CRAO is an eye emergency requiring immediate evaluation and treatment. Multiple interventions may be attempted while arranging HBOT.
Ocular Massage
Digital massage of the globe may help dislodge the embolus and restore some blood flow.
Intraocular Pressure Reduction
Medications or anterior chamber paracentesis to lower eye pressure and improve perfusion.
Cardiovascular Workup
Evaluation for stroke risk factors since CRAO often indicates systemic vascular disease.
Thrombolysis
In select cases, intra-arterial or IV thrombolytics may be considered within the treatment window.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
HBOT can deliver enough oxygen to the retina by diffusion from the choroidal circulation to maintain retinal viability until spontaneous reperfusion occurs or interventional treatment restores blood flow.
Time is critical—the best outcomes occur when HBOT begins within 8 hours of symptom onset. Even modest vision recovery can make a significant difference in quality of life.
Key Benefits of HBOT for Retinal Artery Occlusion
Treatment Protocol
Emergency HBOT at 2.0-2.4 ATA should begin as soon as possible after symptom onset. Treatments are typically 90 minutes and may be repeated every 8-12 hours.
Treatment continues until vision stabilizes or the window for recovery has passed (typically 24-48 hours from onset).
Ready to Explore HBOT?
Schedule a consultation with our hyperbaric medicine specialists to discuss whether HBOT may be right for your condition.