What Researchers Did
This study describes two cases of decompression sickness (DCS) in F/A-18C aviators who experienced unusual cabin pressure changes, both requiring hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
What They Found
Researchers found two F/A-18C aviators developed decompression sickness (DCS) following atypical cabin pressure fluctuations. One aviator experienced rapid decompression at 600 feet, while the other had pressure changes between 9,000 and 18,000 feet. Both cases required hyperbaric chamber treatment after initial ground-level oxygen therapy proved insufficient.
Canadian Relevance
Although the study authors are not Canadian, it covers decompression sickness, which is a Health Canada-recognised indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a case report, this study's findings are based on a small number of individuals and may not apply to all cases of decompression sickness.