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Inner ear decompression sickness in Finland: a retrospective 20-year multicenter study.
Oskari H Lindfors1, Richard V Lundell2, Olli J Arola3
1Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Head and Neck Center, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
Summary
Inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) is increasingly reported in technical and recreational divers. While recreational divers show slightly better recovery rates, comprehensive examination is crucial for all IEDCS patients.
Area of Science:
- Diving Medicine
- Hyperbaric Medicine
- Auditory and Vestibular Physiology
Background:
- Inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) often results in residual symptoms, affecting both technical and recreational divers.
- Diving practices, particularly in Finland, may be contributing to an increase in IEDCS cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare Inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) cases between technical and recreational divers.
- To identify predisposing factors and recovery outcomes in IEDCS patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of IEDCS patients treated between 1999 and 2018.
- Patients were categorized as technical or recreational divers based on their incident dive.
- Inclusion criteria focused on hearing loss, tinnitus, or vertigo; middle ear or cerebellar symptoms were excluded.
Main Results:
- Inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) accounted for 15.6% of all decompression sickness (DCS) cases, with a rising incidence.
- Common predisposing factors included consecutive/multiple dives and increased intrathoracic pressure.
- Vestibular symptoms were prevalent (93.3%), and technical divers experienced more severe symptoms, though recreational divers had slightly higher complete recovery rates (71.4% vs. 64.5%).
Conclusions:
- The incidence of Inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) is rising, likely due to evolving diving practices.
- A thorough medical evaluation is recommended for all Inner ear decompression sickness (IEDCS) patients, regardless of initial symptom severity or apparent recovery.
