What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a retrospective review of medical records for 20 sports divers admitted to a neurology department in 1997 due to decompression sickness.
What They Found
Out of 20 divers, 11 experienced residual neurological symptoms after treatment, with five showing poor response and 50% or more residual clinical score. More than half of the divers had residual neurological symptoms upon discharge, most commonly sensory loss and asymmetrical reflexes.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian sports divers experiencing decompression sickness should be aware that residual neurological symptoms are common even after treatment. Continued monitoring and follow-up may be necessary to manage persistent issues like sensory loss or asymmetrical reflexes.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection, as it was conducted in Norway.
Study Limitations
The study's retrospective design and small sample size of 20 divers limit the generalizability of its findings.