Saturation treatment in shore-based chambers for divers with deteriorating cerebro-spinal decompression sickness

Area of Science:

• Diving Medicine
• Hyperbaric Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• Nearly 4% of recompression treatments in Scotland utilize saturation tables.
• Cases typically involve divers with spinal cord injury and potential cerebral involvement after surfacing.
• These injuries often arise from failed or failing primary recompression treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the principles and protocols for saturation treatment in diving emergencies.
• To present case studies illustrating the application of saturation therapy.
• To demonstrate the initiation and evolution of saturation treatments for decompression sickness.

Main Methods:

• Review of saturation treatment principles and delivery protocols.
• Presentation of case studies involving immediate saturation therapy.
• Presentation of case studies involving conversion to saturation therapy from failed primary treatments.

Main Results:

• Saturation therapy is a viable treatment option for specific diving-related neurological injuries.
• Immediate saturation therapy can be initiated for acute presentations.
• Conversion to saturation therapy is effective for managing failing or failed primary treatments.

Conclusions:

• Saturation therapy plays a crucial role in managing complex decompression sickness cases with neurological compromise.
• Understanding the protocols for saturation treatment is essential for managing severe diving injuries.
• Case studies highlight the adaptability and effectiveness of saturation therapy in critical situations.