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.
Canadian Relevance
While this study was conducted in Algeria, it covers dysbaric osteonecrosis, which is related to decompression sickness, a Health Canada-recognised 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.