Correction of Post-Traumatic Neurological Deficits Using an Argon-Containing Gas Mixture in a Rat Model of Open Traumatic Brain Injury.

Abstract

The effect of three sessions of 2-h inhalation of an argon-oxygen mixture following open craniocerebral trauma on neurological status, functional outcomes, and MRI results was evaluated in rats. Statistically significant differences were observed between the control (trauma only) and experimental group (trauma + argon-oxygen inhalation) on day 14 in limb-placing test scores, as well as in both lesion volume and hippocampal volume. The experimental group exhibited a more pronounced improvement in neurological function on days 7-14. These findings indicate that the argon-oxygen mixture exerts a significant neuroprotective effect, reduces the extent of brain injury, and promotes recovery of motor function. Notably, to achieve maximal therapeutic benefit, argon-oxygen inhalation should likely be administered not only immediately after injury but also during the subacute phase.