The pathophysiology, presentation, and triage of altitude-related decompression sickness associated with hypobaric...

Decompression sickness following excursions to low atmospheric pressures has recently been a topic of confusion and concern. This article provides a reference for management of decompression sickness occurring after exposure to a reduction in ambient pressure in a hypobaric chamber. The pathophysiology, recognition, classification, initial management, definitive treatment, and eventual disposition of these cases are presented in a form which is applicable to all flight surgeons and flight physiologists, especially those with responsibility for utilization of hypobaric chambers.