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Case report: inflight decompression sickness affecting the temporomandibular joint
181st Medical Group/SGPF, Keesler Air Force Base, MS 39534-2519, USA.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|May 20, 1998
Summary
A gunner experienced temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain due to decompression sickness (DCS) during a high-altitude flight. Symptoms resolved with oxygen, marking the first reported inflight DCS case affecting the TMJ.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Medicine
- Aerospace Physiology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Decompression sickness (DCS) is a risk associated with reduced ambient pressure.
- While DCS is known in aviation, specific joint manifestations are rarely reported.
- Understanding DCS in aviators is crucial for flight safety and crew health.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old AC-130 gunner reported unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain during a combat support mission.
- The aircrew member was exposed to high altitude (18,000 ft) and cold temperatures (-11°C) for 60-90 minutes.
- Symptoms developed during increased inflight activity.
Findings:
- A diagnosis of decompression sickness (DCS) was established based on symptoms and environmental risk factors.
- The gunner's TMJ pain resolved completely after receiving 100% oxygen therapy.
- The patient was cleared for return to flying status after 72 hours.
Implications:
- This case highlights the temporomandibular joint as a potential site for DCS manifestation.
- Altitude-related DCS affecting the TMJ is an unusual presentation, representing a novel finding in aviation medicine.
- Recognizing and managing such atypical DCS presentations is vital for maintaining aircrew fitness and operational readiness.