[Behavior of impedance of the middle ear during rapid changes in barometric pressure]

The first results on the dynamic behaviour of middle ear impedenzometric variations starting from an altitude of 3,000 mt and descending constantly by about 1,500 mt/min to sea level, are reported. The research was carried out in a hypobaric chamber, under simulated flight conditions, using the equipment of the Aeronautics and Space Medicine Studies and Research Centre of the Air Force. Evaluation of the results obtained in subjects trained for rapid descents and in others not so trained suggests that the technique used is a useful aid in the diagnosis of the tubal conditions of subjects who are to be subjected to rapid ascents and descents.