What Researchers Did
Researchers explored the role of blood clotting processes in decompression sickness and discussed potential treatments.
What They Found
They found that platelets become overly sticky in decompression sickness, likely due to an imbalance in substances that promote clotting versus those that prevent it. They suggested that low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (3.5-5 mg/kg every three days), sometimes with dipyridamole, can be used alongside hyperbaric treatment. They also recommended a diet rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and high-dose vitamin E to counteract potential negative effects of hyperbaric oxygenation.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients experiencing decompression sickness, this research highlights the importance of managing blood clotting processes. It suggests that specific anti-clotting medications and dietary changes could be considered as supportive therapies alongside hyperbaric oxygen treatment to improve outcomes.
Canadian Relevance
This study covers decompression sickness, which is a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
This study, published in 1981, is a theoretical discussion of mechanisms and suggested therapies, not a report of new experimental data or clinical trial outcomes.