Cardiac problems associated with dysbarism.

Abstract

Patient salvage rates depend on the extent of injury, speed and appropriateness of treatment, and the patient's age and state of health in addition to other variables. Undertreatment of DII may result in significant morbidity and associated costs. If there is any doubt regarding whether a patient might benefit from treatment, a trial at pressure is indicated. Among those with AGE who reach recompression within 5 minutes, the death rate may be only 5%, and those who survive have little morbidity. Among those whose recompression delay increases to 5 hours, however, mortality approaches 10%, and more than 50% of the survivors experience residua. All dive accidents should be thoroughly investigated by professionals. Sport divers who manifest any symptoms of DII should refrain from further diving because response to therapy for future episodes is generally relatively poor. Victims of DII must have long-term follow-up.