What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a retrospective study following 20 recreational divers (11 with inner ear decompression sickness and 9 with inner ear barotrauma) to assess long-term inner ear damage.
What They Found
Residual cochleovestibular deficits were found in 10 (91%) of patients with inner ear decompression sickness compared to 3 (33%) with inner ear barotrauma (P <.02). Three patients (33%) with inner ear barotrauma recovered completely within one month, while 5 (56%) of those with cochlear insult reported significant hearing loss and tinnitus.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Patients experiencing inner ear decompression sickness after diving face a high risk of lasting inner ear damage, even after treatment. Those with inner ear barotrauma may have a better chance of full recovery, but persistent hearing loss and tinnitus are common after cochlear injury.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no specific Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study's retrospective design and small sample size of 20 divers limit the generalizability of its findings.