Dysbaric osteonecrosis: Case series osteonecrosis in divers

This is the first published study examining decompression illness (DCI) among divers in Algeria. DCI is a complex syndrome caused by bubbles of inert gas that form in the body due to an improper decompression process, following exposure to increased pressure underwater. Algerian diving conditions pose significant challenges to divers. The study focuses on red coral diving, a popular and long-standing practice in eastern Algeria. We present three case reports describing dysbaric osteonecrosis of the humeral head with varying degrees of severity and presentation. Dysbaric osteonecrosis (DON), a rare complication in professional divers and compressed-air workers, presents a controversial link to previous decompression sickness (DCS) with musculoskeletal pain (type 1 DCS). The potential for these ischemic lesions to progress to osteonecrosis after DCS remains unclear.

This report describes a professional diver declared permanently unfit for diving due to advanced dysbaric osteonecrosis of the shoulder, following type 1 DCS in the same region treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This case highlights the potential association between these events and emphasizes the importance of close monitoring after acute type 1 DCS.

Early magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of all DCS cases with musculoskeletal pain is recommended to detect potential osteo-medullary damage. Such damage could worsen with continued diving and potentially transition into bone necrosis.