Using hyperbaric oxygen therapy to speed up recovery after ACL surgery
Official title: The Effect of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for Acceleration Recovery After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR): a Prospective, Randomized Control Study.
Run by Assaf-Harofeh Medical Center · NCT06493851 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help athletes recover faster after ACL surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Assaf-Harofeh Medical Center Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Zrifin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 15, 2024 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2028 |
| Study ends | January 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | April 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06493851 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-45 who have sustained an anterior cruciate ligament tear requiring reconstruction.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with additional injuries, previous knee surgeries, or certain medical conditions such as active malignancy or chest pathology may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in accelerating recovery following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). ACL injuries are common among athletes, and the recovery process can take around eight months. The research aims to determine if HBOT can enhance healing and reduce recovery time based on previous findings in animal studies and limited human trials. Participants will undergo HBOT as part of their rehabilitation to assess improvements in recovery metrics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce recovery time for athletes after ACL surgery, allowing for a quicker return to sports.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies on hyperbaric oxygen therapy for other ligament injuries have shown positive outcomes, suggesting potential for success in this study as well.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Subjects willing and able to read, understand and sign an informed consent 2. Age 18-45 3. Anterior cruciate ligament tear for reconstruction (with or without meniscal repair). Exclusion Criteria: 1. Inability to attend scheduled clinic visits and/or comply with the study protocol 2. Additional injury 3. An inability to perform MRI. 4. Active malignancy 5. Chest pathology incompatible with pressure changes (including active asthma) 6. Ear or sinus pathology incompatible with pressure changes 7. History of epilepsy 8. Claustrophobia 9. Previous knee surgery 10. Participation in another study
Where it's running
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The Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Research Shamir Medical Center (Assaf Harofeh)
Zrifin, Israel Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Shai a Efrati, MD — Asaf-Harofhe MC
- Study coordinator: Shai a Efrati, MD
- Email: efratishai@outlook.com
- Phone: 972549212866
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Analgesic effects of adding BiFeS block to adductor canal block after ACL reconstruction
This study tests whether adding a BiFeS block to the standard adductor canal block provides better pain relief after ACL reconstruction.
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Donor ankle sensorimotor recovery after ACL reconstruction with a peroneus longus graft
This study tests how the donor ankle recovers sensorimotor function after ACL reconstruction using a peroneus longus tendon autograft in adults 18–55.
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ACL Tear: Reconstruction vs Primary Repair outcomes after surgery
This study tests how patients who had ACL reconstruction compare with those who had arthroscopic primary ACL repair in terms of strength, endurance, fatigue, knee stability, and function after surgery.
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Fractal versus steady visual walking cues after ACL reconstruction
This tests whether fractal (variable) visual walking cues or steady metronome-like cues help athletes who had ACL reconstruction walk with steadier, safer patterns.
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Brain-computer visualization training to improve muscle activation after orthopedic surgery
This tests whether adding EEG-based neurofeedback visualization to usual physical therapy helps adults recovering from ACL, hip, or knee surgery activate their muscles better and speed recovery.
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Eccentric training for rehabilitation after ACL surgery
This study is testing if a special type of exercise called eccentric training helps people recover better after ACL surgery compared to regular rehab exercises.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.