What Researchers Did
Researchers investigated the signs and symptoms of middle ear barotrauma in 67 patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen treatment and looked at factors that might contribute to it.
What They Found
The study found that 68.7% of patients experienced middle ear barotrauma based on objective ear examinations. Subjective symptoms were reported less often by older patients or those with severe neurological or speech difficulties. Patients with a trauma grade of 2 or more complained of severe symptoms and were appropriate candidates for treatment.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
This study was conducted in 1993 with a relatively small sample size of 67 patients, which may limit its generalizability to current practices.