What Researchers Did
Researchers investigated the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of spinal cord decompression sickness (DCS) in seven compressed-air divers.
What They Found
Only two of the seven patients diagnosed with spinal cord DCS showed positive MRI findings. One case revealed extensive high signal in the central gray matter, while another showed patchy high signal in the dorsal column white matter. These MRI findings did not consistently correlate with clinical evolution or neurological improvement, suggesting MRI is not always appropriate for quick diagnosis.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients experiencing spinal cord decompression sickness should be aware that MRI may not always provide a quick or definitive diagnosis. Therefore, decisions regarding hyperbaric oxygen treatment should not be based primarily on MRI results alone.
Canadian Relevance
This study does not have a direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
A significant limitation of this study is its small sample size of seven cases, which limits the generalizability of the findings.