Using hyperbaric oxygen therapy and training to help veterans with PTSD recover memories

Enhanced Hippocampal Neuroplasticity for Surfacing of Inaccessible Traumatic Memories in Veterans With PTSD

Not applicable Interventional Assaf-Harofeh Medical Center · NCT05883397

This study is testing if combining hyperbaric oxygen therapy with memory training can help veterans with PTSD recover memories and feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages25 Years to 60 Years
SexMale
SponsorAssaf-Harofeh Medical Center Government
Locations1 site (Ramla)
Trial IDNCT05883397 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) combined with hippocampal training on veterans suffering from PTSD and peritraumatic amnesia. The approach aims to enhance hippocampal neuroplasticity, which may improve memory recovery and alleviate PTSD symptoms. Forty male veterans aged 25 to 60 will participate, receiving either HBOT alone or HBOT alongside cognitive and physical training. The goal is to determine if this combined treatment can facilitate better access to traumatic memories and improve overall mental health outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are male veterans aged 25 to 60 with combat-related PTSD and a history of peritraumatic amnesia.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of traumatic brain injury, active smoking, or other contraindications for HBOT may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve memory recovery and reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with HBOT in treating PTSD, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of PTSD
* A history of trauma of at least one course of trauma-focused psychotherapy
* The presence of peri-traumatic amnesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* A history of traumatic brain injury or any other known brain pathology except PTSD
* Active smoking
* Drugs or alcohol abuse other than prescribed cannabis
* Active asthma, lung pathology, epilepsy or otolaryngological disease incompatible with HBOT
* The presence of shards or another contraindication for MRI

Where this trial is running

Ramla

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PTSDPeritraumatic Amnesia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.