What Researchers Did
Researchers presented three case reports of divers in Algeria who developed dysbaric osteonecrosis, a rare bone condition, after experiencing decompression sickness.
What They Found
The study described three cases of dysbaric osteonecrosis (DON) affecting the humeral head (shoulder bone) in divers. One professional diver was permanently unable to dive due to advanced DON, which developed after a type 1 decompression sickness episode in the same region treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The findings suggest a potential association between type 1 decompression sickness with musculoskeletal pain and the later development of DON.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian divers who experience decompression sickness with musculoskeletal pain might benefit from early medical imaging, such as an MRI, to check for potential bone damage. Detecting such damage early could help prevent it from worsening into severe dysbaric osteonecrosis, which can end a diving career. This highlights the importance of close monitoring for divers after acute type 1 decompression sickness.
Canadian Relevance
While this study was conducted in Algeria, it covers dysbaric osteonecrosis, which is related to decompression sickness, a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
As a case series, this study's findings are based on a small number of individuals and may not apply to all divers.