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Otolaryngological requirements for recreational self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 July 2006

R J Sim  and
R P Youngs
R J Sim
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Gloucester Royal Hospital, Gloucester, UK
R P Youngs
Affiliation:
Gloucester Royal Hospital, Gloucester, UK.
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Abstract

Recreational self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) diving continues to grow in popularity. Medical requirements to be ‘fit to dive’ vary throughout the world, from self-certification to a full medical examination prior to training. This review discusses the relative merits of the most commonly used guidelines for recreational SCUBA diving, with reference to common diving-related otorhinolaryngological conditions. Areas of controversy, such as fitness to dive after rhinological and otological surgery, are discussed. The authors suggest that a unified approach from the various recreational SCUBA diving organizations involved would aid in clarification for divers and physicians alike. The difficulties in achieving such a unified approach, however, should not be underestimated.

Keywords

DivingOtolaryngologyDecompression SicknessBarotraumasStandards
Type
Review Article
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 121 , Issue 4 , April 2007 , pp. 306 - 311
Copyright
2006 JLO (1984) Limited

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