[Commercial soda lime ingestion during a dive]

Area of Science:

• Diving Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Soda lime is essential for CO2 absorption in technical diving rebreathers (CCR/SCR) and anesthesia.
• Soda lime contains hydroxycarbamide, which can form caustic soda when exposed to moisture.
• Caustic ingestion poses significant risks, including esophageal damage and perforation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the risks associated with soda lime ingestion in technical divers.
• To emphasize the potential for severe esophageal injury from caustic soda formation.
• To stress the importance of prompt endoscopic evaluation after suspected ingestion.

Main Methods:

• Review of potential chemical reactions of soda lime components.
• Analysis of clinical consequences of caustic ingestion.
• Discussion of diagnostic and management strategies for esophageal burns.

Main Results:

• Soda lime ingestion can lead to severe esophageal burns due to caustic soda formation.
• Complications include colliquation necrosis and a high risk of esophageal perforation.
• Delayed diagnosis and treatment can worsen outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Technical divers using rebreathers are at risk of caustic esophageal injury from soda lime.
• Immediate endoscopic assessment is critical for evaluating the extent of damage.
• Prompt medical intervention is necessary to prevent serious complications such as perforation.