What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed existing guidelines and available literature on how to manage diving-related bubble illnesses, especially when there is a delay in getting the patient to a hyperbaric chamber.
What They Found
The review confirmed that the 1996 European Consensus Conference recommendations for fluid replacement, normobaric oxygen, and intensive therapy for decompression accidents remain valid. While some centers use drugs like corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants, or lidocaine, the review found a lack of strong evidence from randomized controlled studies to support their routine use.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian divers experiencing decompression sickness, this review reinforces the importance of immediate first aid measures like normobaric oxygen and fluid replacement while awaiting hyperbaric oxygen therapy. It suggests that while some medications might be considered by clinicians, their routine use before HBOT for decompression sickness lacks strong evidence, guiding patient and physician expectations.
Canadian Relevance
Although not a Canadian study, it covers decompression sickness, which is a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
A key limitation is the absence of strong evidence from randomized controlled studies regarding the efficacy of various pharmacological agents in treating decompression illness.