What Researchers Did
Researchers compared a specific ear function test (ETF-test) with how well divers could equalize ear pressure in a hyperbaric chamber.
What They Found
In a study of 35 professional divers, 24 had Eustachian Tube Function (ETF) test results above 20 DaPa, indicating good ear function. While 3 divers with low ETF scores in both ears had no issues, 7 out of 8 divers with a low score in one ear experienced difficulty equalizing pressure in that ear during a 2.2 ATA hyperbaric chamber test. The study concluded that ETF test values above 20 DaPa generally guarantee sufficient Eustachian tube function for diving activities.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian divers or patients considering hyperbaric oxygen therapy, this study suggests that the ETF test could help identify those at risk of ear pressure problems. A good ETF score generally indicates sufficient ear function for diving or hyperbaric exposure, but a lower score does not always predict difficulty, meaning further assessment might be needed.
Canadian Relevance
This study relates to assessing ear function for diving fitness and preventing barotrauma, which is relevant to decompression sickness, a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Study Limitations
The study involved a relatively small group of 35 professional divers, and the ETF test's predictive power was not definitive for lower scores.