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Updated: Aug 1, 2026
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Training Rats to Voluntarily Dive Underwater: Investigations of the Mammalian Diving Response
Published on: November 12, 2014
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Case report: Physiological changes due to a rapid ascent from 55 metres underwater
Michele Homsy1, Catherine Bounds1, Mark Glover2
1Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, St. Richards, Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Chichester, UK.
Journal of the Intensive Care Society
|March 1, 2021
Summary
A severe case of decompression illness occurred in a diver after an uncontrolled ascent. Prompt critical care, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and physical rehabilitation led to recovery and independent function.
Area of Science:
- Diving Medicine
- Hyperbaric Medicine
- Critical Care
Background:
- Uncontrolled ascents in diving can lead to severe decompression illness.
- Decompression illness can cause multi-organ failure and neurological deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of severe decompression illness in a diver.
- To highlight the management and recovery process.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a diver with uncontrolled ascent from 55m.
- Clinical management including critical care and hyperbaric therapy.
- Multidisciplinary rehabilitation involving physical therapy.
Main Results:
- The diver presented with shock and multi-organ failure.
- Bilateral lower limb neurological deficits were observed.
- Multiple hyperbaric therapy sessions were administered.
Conclusions:
- Severe decompression illness requires intensive, multidisciplinary management.
- Recovery is possible with timely and comprehensive treatment.
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is crucial for managing severe decompression illness.
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