What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study to analyze the efficacy of a 24-hour on-call system for providing early recompression therapy to patients with acute decompression sickness.
What They Found
Among 341 acute decompression sickness patients, the median time from symptom onset to hyperbaric oxygen therapy was 259 minutes, with 240 minutes for duty time and 292 minutes for non-duty time admissions. Patients who were discharged received therapy significantly faster from symptom onset (251 minutes) and from ED admission (63.4 minutes) compared to those who were hospitalized (291 minutes and 92 minutes, respectively).
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This study suggests that organized 24-hour on-call systems can help ensure timely access to recompression therapy for Canadian patients experiencing decompression sickness, regardless of the time of day. Faster access to this specialized treatment, as shown by better outcomes in discharged patients, could potentially improve recovery for divers and others affected by DCS in Canada.
Canadian Relevance
This study was conducted in a single center outside of Canada and does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
As a single-center retrospective study, the findings may not be generalizable to all populations or healthcare systems.