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Paranasal sinus barotrauma in sports self-contained underwater breathing apparatus divers
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 23 May 2008
Abstract
To evaluate potential pre-dive parameters in relation to paranasal sinus barotrauma in sports self-contained underwater breathing apparatus divers.
The pre-dive and follow-up records of 46 healthy sports self-contained underwater breathing apparatus divers were analysed.
In the routine pre-dive examination of diving candidates with no symptoms of rhino-sinus disease, rhinoscopy, sinus radiography and nasal endoscopy indicated no signs of rhinitis and/or sinusitis. Any signs of paranasal sinus barotrauma were noted, and several parameters were evaluated in relation to occurrence of barotrauma.
Of the studied parameters, a history of sinusitis and of middle-ear barotrauma was significantly more frequent in divers in the barotrauma group (p < 0.05).
In divers undergoing a routine pre-dive examination, paranasal sinus barotrauma was not related to sex, alcohol consumption, smoking, decongestant use, mild nasal septal deviation, or inability to perform the Valsalva or Toynbee manoeuvres. However, divers with a history of sinusitis or middle-ear barotrauma may be more prone to paranasal sinus barotrauma. A more detailed pre-dive examination may be useful for such individuals.
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- Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2008
Footnotes
Presented in part at the 5th European Congress of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology Head and Neck Surgery, 11–16 September 2004, Rodos, Greece.
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