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Lambert D, Binkley M, Gaskill Z. Underwater and Scuba Diving Accidents. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2024; 42:551-563. [PMID: 38925774 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2024.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The evaluation and care of an injured scuba diver requires an understanding of the different types of underwater activities that may be deemed scuba diving. Such activities may range from the complex (eg, commercial or technical diving) all the way up to basic recreational scuba or snorkeling. A thorough physical examination should be completed as early as possible with a focus on specific areas at risk for injury and etiology, such as a detailed cardiopulmonary, skin, and neurologic examination. Serial reassessments and supportive care are as equally important as consultation with a dive medicine expert, especially one with hyperbaric capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Lambert
- Division of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3610 Hamilton Walk, 1 John Morgan Building, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Mark Binkley
- Division of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3610 Hamilton Walk, 1 John Morgan Building, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zachary Gaskill
- Division of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3610 Hamilton Walk, 1 John Morgan Building, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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2
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Chandran K, Chanda S, Natarajan G, Mehta B. Sanal flow choking in cardiovascular systems: A scientific fallacy. Indian J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2024; 40:511-513. [PMID: 38919182 PMCID: PMC11194223 DOI: 10.1007/s12055-023-01666-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Chandran
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Palakkad, Palakkad, 678623 Kerala India
| | - Samarjeet Chanda
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Palakkad, Palakkad, 678623 Kerala India
| | - Ganesh Natarajan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Palakkad, Palakkad, 678623 Kerala India
| | - Balkrishna Mehta
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bhilai, Durg, 491001 Chattisgarh India
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3
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Imtiyaz Z, Bhopale VM, Arya AK, Bhat AR, Thom SR. Microparticles in Human Perspiration as an Inflammatory Response Index. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1293. [PMID: 38928708 PMCID: PMC11203027 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14121293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
A blood component analysis is an early step for evaluating inflammatory disorders, but it can be unfeasible in some settings. This pilot study assessed whether extracellular vesicle (EV) changes in perspiration are parallel to those occurring in blood as an alternative or complementary option to diagnose an inflammatory response. In parallel studies, EVs were analyzed in perspiration and blood obtained before and after five self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (SCUBA) divers at the National Aquarium in Baltimore performed a dive to 3.98 m of sea water for 40 min, and five non-divers performed an exercise routine at ambient atmospheric pressure. The results demonstrated that microparticles (MPs) are present in perspiration, their numbers increase in the blood in response to SCUBA diving, and the interleukin (IL)-1β content increases. In contrast, while blood-borne MPs became elevated in response to terrestrial exercise, no statistically significant increases occurred in perspiration, and there were no changes in IL-1β. There were no statistically significant elevations in the exosomes in perspiration or blood in response to SCUBA diving and few changes following terrestrial exercise. These findings suggest that an MP perspiration analysis could be a non-invasive method for detecting inflammatory responses that can occur due to the oxidative stress associated with SCUBA diving.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Stephen R. Thom
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (Z.I.); (V.M.B.); (A.K.A.); (A.R.B.)
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4
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Apostolos A, Alexiou P, Papanikolaou A, Trantalis G, Drakopoulou M, Ktenopoulos N, Kachrimanidis I, Vlachakis PK, Tsakiri I, Chrysostomidis G, Aggeli K, Tsioufis C, Toutouzas K. Patent Foramen Ovale Closure in Special Clinical Situations: More Questions Than Answers? Life (Basel) 2024; 14:706. [PMID: 38929689 PMCID: PMC11204715 DOI: 10.3390/life14060706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a remnant of the foetal circulation resulting from incomplete occlusion of the septum primum and septum secundum. Although prevalent in about 25% of the population, it mainly remains asymptomatic. However, its clinical significance in situations such as cryptogenic stroke, migraine, and decompression illness (DCI) has been well described. Recent randomised clinical trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the efficacy of percutaneous PFO closure over pharmacological therapy alone for secondary stroke prevention in carefully selected patients. Notably, these trials have excluded older patients or those with concurrent thrombophilia. Furthermore, the role of closure in other clinical conditions associated with PFO, like decompression sickness (DCS) and migraines, remains under investigation. Our review aims to summarise the existing literature regarding epidemiology, pathophysiological mechanisms, optimal management, and closure indications for these special patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Apostolos
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Polyxeni Alexiou
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Amalia Papanikolaou
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Universitatklinikum Essen, 451 47 Essen, Germany;
| | - Georgios Trantalis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Maria Drakopoulou
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Nikolaos Ktenopoulos
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Ioannis Kachrimanidis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Panayotis K. Vlachakis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Ismini Tsakiri
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Grigorios Chrysostomidis
- Second Department of Adult Cardiac Surgery, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Center, 176 74 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantina Aggeli
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Costas Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
| | - Konstantinos Toutouzas
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippocration General Hospital, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (P.A.); (G.T.); (M.D.); (N.K.); (I.K.); (P.K.V.); (I.T.); (K.A.); (C.T.)
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5
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Yu E, Valdivia-Valdivia JM, Silva F, Lindholm P. Breath-Hold Diving Injuries - A Primer for Medical Providers. Curr Sports Med Rep 2024; 23:199-206. [PMID: 38709946 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000001168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Breath-hold divers, also known as freedivers, are at risk of specific injuries that are unique from those of surface swimmers and compressed air divers. Using peer-reviewed scientific research and expert opinion, we created a guide for medical providers managing breath-hold diving injuries in the field. Hypoxia induced by prolonged apnea and increased oxygen uptake can result in an impaired mental state that can manifest as involuntary movements or full loss of consciousness. Negative pressure barotrauma secondary to airspace collapse can lead to edema and/or hemorrhage. Positive pressure barotrauma secondary to overexpansion of airspaces can result in gas embolism or air entry into tissues and organs. Inert gas loading into tissues from prolonged deep dives or repetitive shallow dives with short surface intervals can lead to decompression sickness. Inert gas narcosis at depth is commonly described as an altered state similar to that experienced by compressed air divers. Asymptomatic cardiac arrhythmias are common during apnea, normally reversing shortly after normal ventilation resumes. The methods of glossopharyngeal breathing (insufflation and exsufflation) can add to the risk of pulmonary overinflation barotrauma or loss of consciousness from decreased cardiac preload. This guide also includes information for medical providers who are tasked with providing medical support at an organized breath-hold diving event with a list of suggested equipment to facilitate diagnosis and treatment outside of the hospital setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Yu
- University of California San Diego, Department of Emergency Medicine; San Diego, CA
| | | | - Fernando Silva
- Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine; Vacaville, CA
| | - Peter Lindholm
- University of California San Diego, Department of Emergency Medicine; San Diego, CA
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Balestra C, Lévêque C, Mrakic-Sposta S, Vezzoli A, Wauthy P, Germonpré P, Tillmans F, Guerrero F, Lafère P. Physiology of deep closed circuit rebreather mixed gas diving: vascular gas emboli and biological changes during a week-long liveaboard safari. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1395846. [PMID: 38660539 PMCID: PMC11040087 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1395846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Diving decompression theory hypothesizes inflammatory processes as a source of micronuclei which could increase related risks. Therefore, we tested 10 healthy, male divers. They performed 6-8 dives with a maximum of two dives per day at depths ranging from 21 to 122 msw with CCR mixed gas diving. Methods: Post-dive VGE were counted by echocardiography. Saliva and urine samples were taken before and after each dive to evaluate inflammation: ROS production, lipid peroxidation (8-iso-PGF2), DNA damage (8-OH-dG), cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and neopterin). Results: VGE exhibits a progressive reduction followed by an increase (p < 0.0001) which parallels inflammation responses. Indeed, ROS, 8-iso-PGF2, IL-6 and neopterin increases from 0.19 ± 0.02 to 1.13 ± 0.09 μmol.min-1 (p < 0.001); 199.8 ± 55.9 to 632.7 ± 73.3 ng.mg-1 creatinine (p < 0.0001); 2.35 ± 0.54 to 19.5 ± 2.96 pg.mL-1 (p < 0.001); and 93.7 ± 11.2 to 299 ± 25.9 μmol·mol-1 creatinine (p = 0.005), respectively. The variation after each dive was held constant around 158.3% ± 6.9% (p = 0.021); 151.4% ± 5.7% (p < 0.0001); 176.3% ± 11.9% (p < 0.0001); and 160.1% ± 5.6% (p < 0.001), respectively. Discussion: When oxy-inflammation reaches a certain level, it exceeds hormetic coping mechanisms allowing second-generation micronuclei substantiated by an increase of VGE after an initial continuous decrease consistent with a depletion of "first generation" pre-existing micronuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costantino Balestra
- Environmental, Occupational, Aging (Integrative) Physiology Laboratory, Haute Ecole Bruxelles-Brabant (HE2B), Brussels, Belgium
- Physical Activity Teaching Unit, Motor Sciences Department, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
- DAN Europe Research Division (Roseto-Brussels), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Clément Lévêque
- Environmental, Occupational, Aging (Integrative) Physiology Laboratory, Haute Ecole Bruxelles-Brabant (HE2B), Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Alessandra Vezzoli
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (CNR), Milan, Italy
| | - Pierre Wauthy
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, CHU Brugmann, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Germonpré
- Environmental, Occupational, Aging (Integrative) Physiology Laboratory, Haute Ecole Bruxelles-Brabant (HE2B), Brussels, Belgium
- DAN Europe Research Division (Roseto-Brussels), Brussels, Belgium
- Centre for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Pierre Lafère
- Environmental, Occupational, Aging (Integrative) Physiology Laboratory, Haute Ecole Bruxelles-Brabant (HE2B), Brussels, Belgium
- DAN Europe Research Division (Roseto-Brussels), Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratoire ORPHY EA 4324, University Brest, Brest, France
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7
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Ashworth ET, Ogawa R, Nguyen J, Afif C, Sá RC, Butts Pauly K, Vera DR, Lindholm P. A novel method for tracking nitrogen kinetics in vivo under hyperbaric conditions using radioactive nitrogen-13 gas and positron emission tomography. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 136:949-953. [PMID: 38420678 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00859.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Decompression sickness (DCS) is caused by gaseous nitrogen dissolved in tissues forming bubbles during decompression. To date, no method exists to identify nitrogen within tissues, but with advances in positron-emission tomography (PET) technology, it may be possible to track gaseous radionuclides into tissues. We aimed to develop a method to track nitrogen movement in vivo and under hyperbaric pressure that could then be used to further our understanding of DCS using nitrogen-13 (13N2). A single anesthetized female Sprague-Dawley rat was exposed to 625 kPa, composed of air, isoflurane, and 13N2 for 10 min. The PET scanner recorded 13N2 during the hyperbaric exposure with energy windows of 250-750 keV. The PET showed an increase in 13N2 concentration in the lung, heart, and abdominal regions, which all reached a plateau after ∼4 min. This showed that it is possible to gain noninvasive in vivo measurements of nitrogen kinetics through the body while at hyperbaric pressures. Tissue samples showed radioactivity above background levels in the blood, brain, liver, femur, and thigh muscle when assessed using a γ counter. The method can be used to evaluate an array of challenges to our understanding of decompression physiology by quantifying nitrogen load through γ counts of 13N2, and signal intensity of the PET. Further development of the method will improve the specificity of the measured outcomes, and enable it to be used with larger mammals, including humans.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This article describes a method for the in vivo quantification and tracking of nitrogen through the mammalian body whilst exposed to hyperbaric pressure. The method has the potential to further our understanding of decompression sickness, and quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of both the treatment and prevention of decompression sickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward T Ashworth
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Ryotaro Ogawa
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Juliana Nguyen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Chloe Afif
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Rui C Sá
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Kim Butts Pauly
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States
| | - David R Vera
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
| | - Peter Lindholm
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States
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Diederich T, Briggs AM, Malik A, Beaver B. Occupational decompression sickness: A case report. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2024; 5:e13144. [PMID: 38504776 PMCID: PMC10948946 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.13144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Decompression sickness describes the clinical pathology that ensues when rapid decompression from a highly pressurized environment causes the formation of venous and extravascular inert gas bubbles. Symptoms vary widely, commonly including arthralgias, myalgias, paresthesias, and numbness. Severe and potentially life-threatening pathology, such as neurologic impairment, cardiopulmonary instability, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage, can occur as well. Most think of diving endeavors as a common exposure predisposing to this condition, commonly referred to as "the bends." Other occupational exposures documented in the medical literature include military training, caisson work, such as in mining and bridge construction, and hyperbaric treatment attendance. This article presents the case of a 32-year-old male presenting with a mottled rash, arthralgias, myalgias, headache, vision changes, and weakness, which is found to have decompression sickness secondary to occupational exposure in a factory-based pressurized chamber. The patient underwent two hyperbaric chamber sessions with complete resolution of his symptoms. During hospitalization, he was found to have a patent foramen ovale. The patient was counseled to avoid further occupational exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Diederich
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Kansas Medical Center, University of Kansas Health SystemKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Allyson M. Briggs
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Kansas Medical Center, University of Kansas Health SystemKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Adrienne Malik
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Kansas Medical Center, University of Kansas Health SystemKansas CityKansasUSA
| | - Bryan Beaver
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Kansas Medical Center, University of Kansas Health SystemKansas CityKansasUSA
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9
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Tsushima R, Mori K, Imaki S. Secondary deterioration in a patient with cerebral and coronary arterial gas embolism after brief symptom resolution: a case report. Diving Hyperb Med 2024; 54:61-64. [PMID: 38507911 PMCID: PMC11227966 DOI: 10.28920/dhm54.1.61-64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) is recommended for arterial gas embolism (AGE) with severe symptoms. However, once symptoms subside, there may be a dilemma to treat or not. Case presentation A 71-year-old man was noted to have a mass shadow in his left lung, and a transbronchial biopsy was performed with sedation. Flumazenil was intravenously administered at the end of the procedure. However, the patient remained comatose and developed bradycardia, hypotension, and ST-segment elevation in lead II. Although the ST changes spontaneously resolved, the patient had prolonged disorientation. Whole- body computed tomography revealed several black rounded lucencies in the left ventricle and brain, confirming AGE. The patient received oxygen and remained supine. His neurological symptoms gradually improved but worsened again, necessitating HBOT. HBOT was performed seven times, after which neurological symptoms resolved almost completely. Conclusions AGE can secondarily deteriorate after symptoms have subsided. We recommend that HBOT be performed promptly once severe symptoms appear, even if they resolve spontaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Tsushima
- Yokohama Municipal Citizen's Hospital 1-1, Mitsuzawanishi-chou, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-city, Kanagawa-ken 221-0855, Japan
- Corresponding author: Dr Ryota Tsushima, Yokohama Municipal Citizen's Hospital 1-1, Mitsuzawanishi-chou, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-city, Kanagawa-ken 221-0855, Japan,
| | - Kosuke Mori
- Yokohama Minami Kyosai Hospital 1-21-1, Mutsurahigashi, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama- city, Kanagawa-ken 236-0037, Japan
| | - Shohei Imaki
- Yokohama Municipal Citizen's Hospital 1-1, Mitsuzawanishi-chou, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-city, Kanagawa-ken 221-0855, Japan
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10
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Fakkert RA, Koopman MS, Preckel B, van Hulst RA, Weber NC, Weenink RP. Re: Cerebral arterial air emboli on immediate post-endovascular treatment CT are associated with poor short- and long-term clinical outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke patients. J Neuroradiol 2024:S0150-9861(24)00108-1. [PMID: 38382803 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurad.2024.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Raoul A Fakkert
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Miou S Koopman
- Department of Radiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Benedikt Preckel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert A van Hulst
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nina C Weber
- Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert P Weenink
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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11
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Bresser MF, Wingelaar TT, Van Weering JAF, Bresser P, Van Hulst RA. An observational study ascertaining the prevalence of bullae and blebs in young, healthy adults and its possible implications for scuba diving. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1349229. [PMID: 38420621 PMCID: PMC10899502 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1349229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Intrapulmonary air-filled cavities, e.g., bullae, blebs, and cysts, are believed to contribute topulmonary barotrauma (PBT) and arterial gas embolism (AGE) in divers. However, literature is unclear about the prevalence of bullae in healthy adults, ranging from 2.3-33.8%. While this could in part be explained due to increasing quality of radiologic imaging, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, other methodological factors may also affect these findings. This study aims to ascertain the prevalence of bullae in young and healthy adults. Methods: This single-center cross-sectional observational study re-assessed the CT scans of adults (aged 18-40) performed for a clinical suspicion for pulmonary embolism, from 1 January 2016 to 1 March 2020. Presence of bullae was recorded in an electronic database. Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used for statistical analyses. Additionally, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to study the independent predictive value of identified risk factors. Results: A total of 1,014 cases were identified, of which 836 could be included. Distribution amongst age groups (18-25, 26-30, 31-35, and 36-40) was almost equally, however, 75% of the population was female. Of the male proportion, 41% smoked, compared to 27% in females. In 7.2% (95% CI 5.6-9.1) bullae were identified. The prevalence increased with increasing age (p < 0.001), with odd ratios up to 5.347 (95% CI 2.164-13.213, p < 0.001) in the oldest age group. Males and smokers had higher odds ratios for bullae of 2.460 (95% CI 1.144-4.208; p = 0.001) and 3.406 (95% CI 1.878-6.157, p < 0.001), respectively. Similar results were seen in the multivariate logistic regression analysis, where age, male sex and smoking were all statistically significant independent risk factors for bullae. Discussion: Bullae were seen in 7.2% of a healthy population up to 40 years old. Increasing age, smoking, and being male were identified as statistically significant risk factors, both in independent and in multivariate logistic regression analyses. Our observations may warrant a re-evaluation of the contribution of bullae to PBT and AGE, as the latter two occur very rarely and bullae appear to be more frequently present than earlier assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max F. Bresser
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, OLVG, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Thijs T. Wingelaar
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Diving and Submarine Medical Center, Royal Netherlands Navy, Den Helder, Netherlands
| | | | - Paul Bresser
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, OLVG, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rob A. Van Hulst
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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12
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Chotimol P, Lansdowne W, Machin D, Binas K, Angelini GD, Gibbison B. Hypobaric type oxygenators - physics and physiology. Perfusion 2024:2676591241232824. [PMID: 38323543 DOI: 10.1177/02676591241232824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Brain injury is still a serious complication after cardiac surgery. Gaseous microemboli (GME) are known to contribute to both short and longer-term brain injury after cardiac surgery. Hypobaric and novel dual-chamber oxygenators use the physical behaviors and properties of gases to reduce GME. The aim of this review was to present the basic physics of the gases, the mechanism in which the hypobaric and dual-chamber oxygenators reduce GME, their technical performance, the preclinical studies, and future directions. The gas laws are reviewed as an aid to understanding the mechanisms of action of oxygenators. Hypobaric-type oxygenators employ a high oxygen, no nitrogen environment creating a steep concentration gradient of nitrogen out of the blood and into the oxygenator, reducing the risk of GMEs forming. Adequately powered clinical studies have never been carried out with a hypobaric or dual-chamber oxygenator. These are required before such technology can be recommended for widespread clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phatiwat Chotimol
- Department of Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - William Lansdowne
- Department of Anaesthesia,Bristol Heart Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - David Machin
- Department of Anaesthesia,Bristol Heart Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Kressle Binas
- Department of Anaesthesia,Bristol Heart Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Gianni D Angelini
- Department of Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia,Bristol Heart Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Ben Gibbison
- Department of Translational Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Anaesthesia,Bristol Heart Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
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13
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Ashworth ET, Ogawa R, Vera DR, Lindholm P. Effects of oxygen-prebreathing on tissue nitrogenation in normobaric and hyperbaric conditions. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294611. [PMID: 38252649 PMCID: PMC10802958 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breathing pure oxygen causes nitrogen washout from tissues, a method commonly deployed to prevent decompression sickness from hypobaric exposure. Theoretically prebreathing oxygen increases the capacity for nitrogen uptake and potentially limits supersaturation during dives of short duration. We aimed to use 13N2, a radioactive nitrogen isotope, to quantify tissue nitrogen following normobaric and hyperbaric exposures. METHODS Twenty Sprague Dawley rats were divided in 4 conditions; normobaric prebreathe, normobaric control, hyperbaric prebreathe, hyperbaric control. Prebreathed rats breathed oxygen for 1 h prior to the experiment whilst controls breathed air. Normobaric rats breathed air containing 13N2 at 100 kPa for 30 min, whereas hyperbaric rats breathed 13N2 at 700 kPa before being decompressed and sedated using air-isoflurane (without 13N2 for a few minutes). After euthanization, blood, brain, liver, femur and thigh muscle were analyzed by gamma counting. RESULTS At normobaria prebreathing oxygen resulted in higher absolute nitrogen counts in blood (p = .034), as well as higher normalized counts in both the liver and muscle (p = .034). However, following hyperbaric exposure no differences were observed between conditions for any organ (p>.344). Both bone and muscle showed higher normalized counts after hyperbaria compared to normobaria. CONCLUSIONS Oxygen prebreathing caused nitrogen elimination in normobaria that led to a larger "sink" and uptake of 13N2. The lack of difference between conditions in hyperbaria could be due to the duration and depth of the dive mitigating the effect of prebreathing. In the hyperbaric conditions the lower counts were likely due to off-gassing of nitrogen during the sedation procedure, suggest a few minutes was enough to off-gas in rodents. The higher normalized counts under hyperbaria in bone and muscle likely relate to these tissues being slower to on and off-gas nitrogen. Future experiments could include shorter dives and euthanization while breathing 13N2 to prevent off-gassing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Tom Ashworth
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Ryotaro Ogawa
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - David Robert Vera
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Peter Lindholm
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
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14
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Fakkert RA, Koopman MS, Scheerder MJ, Beenen LFM, Weber NC, Preckel B, van Hulst RA, Weenink RP. Computer tomography perfusion patterns in iatrogenic cerebral arterial gas embolism: A retrospective cohort study. Eur J Radiol 2024; 170:111242. [PMID: 38043382 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2023.111242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cerebral arterial gas embolism (CAGE) occurs when air or medical gas enters the systemic circulation during invasive procedures and lodges in the cerebral vasculature. Non-contrast computer tomography (CT) may not always show intracerebral gas. CT perfusion (CTP) might be a useful adjunct for diagnosing CAGE in these patients. METHODS This is a retrospective single-center cohort study. We included patients who were diagnosed with iatrogenic CAGE and underwent CTP within 24 h after onset of symptoms between January 2016 and October 2022. All imaging studies were evaluated by two independent radiologists. CTP studies were scored semi-quantitatively for perfusion abnormalities (normal, minimal, moderate, severe) in the following parameters: cerebral blood flow, cerebral blood volume, time-to-drain and time-to-maximum. RESULTS Among 27 patient admitted with iatrogenic CAGE, 15 patients underwent CTP within the designated timeframe and were included for imaging analysis. CTP showed perfusion deficits in all patients except one. The affected areas on CTP scans were in general located bilaterally and frontoparietally. The typical pattern of CTP abnormalities in these areas was hypoperfusion with an increased time-to-drain and time-to-maximum, and a corresponding minimal decrease in cerebral blood flow. Cerebral blood volume was mostly unaffected. CONCLUSION CTP may show specific perfusion defects in patients with a clinical diagnosis of CAGE. This suggests that CTP may be supportive in diagnosing CAGE in cases where no intracerebral gas is seen on non-contrast CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul A Fakkert
- Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Miou S Koopman
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maeke J Scheerder
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ludo F M Beenen
- Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nina C Weber
- Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Benedikt Preckel
- Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Robert A van Hulst
- Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Robert P Weenink
- Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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15
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Moon RE, Camporesi EM. Coronary Artery Air Embolism in the Non-operating room Anesthesia Setting: Comment. Anesthesiology 2023; 139:550-551. [PMID: 37402251 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000004624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Moon
- Richard E. Moon, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.C.C.P., F.U.H.M., Enrico M. Camporesi, M.D., F.U.H.M. Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina (R.E.M.).
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16
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Marsh PL, Moore EE, Moore HB, Bunch CM, Aboukhaled M, Condon SM, Al-Fadhl MD, Thomas SJ, Larson JR, Bower CW, Miller CB, Pearson ML, Twilling CL, Reser DW, Kim GS, Troyer BM, Yeager D, Thomas SG, Srikureja DP, Patel SS, Añón SL, Thomas AV, Miller JB, Van Ryn DE, Pamulapati SV, Zimmerman D, Wells B, Martin PL, Seder CW, Aversa JG, Greene RB, March RJ, Kwaan HC, Fulkerson DH, Vande Lune SA, Mollnes TE, Nielsen EW, Storm BS, Walsh MM. Iatrogenic air embolism: pathoanatomy, thromboinflammation, endotheliopathy, and therapies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1230049. [PMID: 37795086 PMCID: PMC10546929 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1230049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Iatrogenic vascular air embolism is a relatively infrequent event but is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. These emboli can arise in many clinical settings such as neurosurgery, cardiac surgery, and liver transplantation, but more recently, endoscopy, hemodialysis, thoracentesis, tissue biopsy, angiography, and central and peripheral venous access and removal have overtaken surgery and trauma as significant causes of vascular air embolism. The true incidence may be greater since many of these air emboli are asymptomatic and frequently go undiagnosed or unreported. Due to the rarity of vascular air embolism and because of the many manifestations, diagnoses can be difficult and require immediate therapeutic intervention. An iatrogenic air embolism can result in both venous and arterial emboli whose anatomic locations dictate the clinical course. Most clinically significant iatrogenic air emboli are caused by arterial obstruction of small vessels because the pulmonary gas exchange filters the more frequent, smaller volume bubbles that gain access to the venous circulation. However, there is a subset of patients with venous air emboli caused by larger volumes of air who present with more protean manifestations. There have been significant gains in the understanding of the interactions of fluid dynamics, hemostasis, and inflammation caused by air emboli due to in vitro and in vivo studies on flow dynamics of bubbles in small vessels. Intensive research regarding the thromboinflammatory changes at the level of the endothelium has been described recently. The obstruction of vessels by air emboli causes immediate pathoanatomic and immunologic and thromboinflammatory responses at the level of the endothelium. In this review, we describe those immunologic and thromboinflammatory responses at the level of the endothelium as well as evaluate traditional and novel forms of therapy for this rare and often unrecognized clinical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip L. Marsh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Ernest E. Moore
- Department of Surgery, Ernest E. Moore Shock Trauma Center at Denver Health and University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Hunter B. Moore
- University of Colorado Health Transplant Surgery - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Connor M. Bunch
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Michael Aboukhaled
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Shaun M. Condon
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, United States
| | | | - Samuel J. Thomas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - John R. Larson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - Charles W. Bower
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - Craig B. Miller
- Department of Family Medicine, Saint Joseph Health System, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Michelle L. Pearson
- Department of Family Medicine, Saint Joseph Health System, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | | | - David W. Reser
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - George S. Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - Brittany M. Troyer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - Doyle Yeager
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - Scott G. Thomas
- Department of Trauma & Surgical Research Services, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Daniel P. Srikureja
- Department of Trauma & Surgical Research Services, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Shivani S. Patel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Sofía L. Añón
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Anthony V. Thomas
- Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Joseph B. Miller
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - David E. Van Ryn
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beacon Health System, Elkhart, IN, United States
| | - Saagar V. Pamulapati
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mercy Health Internal Medicine Residency Program, Rockford, IL, United States
| | - Devin Zimmerman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Byars Wells
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Peter L. Martin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Goshen Health, Goshen, IN, United States
| | - Christopher W. Seder
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, RUSH Medical College, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - John G. Aversa
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, RUSH Medical College, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ryan B. Greene
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Robert J. March
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
| | - Hau C. Kwaan
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniel H. Fulkerson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Department of Trauma & Surgical Research Services, South Bend, IN, United States
| | - Stefani A. Vande Lune
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA, United States
| | - Tom E. Mollnes
- Research Laboratory, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erik W. Nielsen
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Surgical Clinic, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
| | - Benjamin S. Storm
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Surgical Clinic, Nordland Hospital, Bodø, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Nord University, Bodø, Norway
| | - Mark M. Walsh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, IN, United States
- Indiana University School of Medicine, South Bend, IN, United States
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17
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Tunc EM, Utarnachitt RB, Latimer A, Calhoun A, Gamache D, Wall J. Air Medical Transport of a 12-Year-Old Girl With Cerebral Gas Embolism Due to Helium Inhalation. Air Med J 2023; 42:377-379. [PMID: 37716812 DOI: 10.1016/j.amj.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
This case report describes the initial care and transport considerations of a pediatric patient who suffered from cerebral gas embolism sustained after inhalation of helium from a pressurized tank. The patient demonstrated neurologic symptoms necessitating hyperbaric oxygen therapy and required fixed wing air transport across a mountain range from a rural community hospital to a tertiary center for the treatment. We review the pathophysiology of cerebral gas embolism and strategies for transporting patients with cerebral gas embolism and other trapped gas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine M Tunc
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA; Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA.
| | - Richard B Utarnachitt
- Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; Airlift Northwest Critical Care Transport Team, Seattle, WA
| | - Andrew Latimer
- Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; Airlift Northwest Critical Care Transport Team, Seattle, WA
| | - Ashley Calhoun
- Airlift Northwest Critical Care Transport Team, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Jessica Wall
- Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA; Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA; Airlift Northwest Critical Care Transport Team, Seattle, WA
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18
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Azarang A, Blogg SL, Currens J, Lance RM, Moon RE, Lindholm P, Papadopoulou V. Development of a graphical user interface for automatic separation of human voice from Doppler ultrasound audio in diving experiments. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283953. [PMID: 37561745 PMCID: PMC10414643 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Doppler ultrasound (DU) is used in decompression research to detect venous gas emboli in the precordium or subclavian vein, as a marker of decompression stress. This is of relevance to scuba divers, compressed air workers and astronauts to prevent decompression sickness (DCS) that can be caused by these bubbles upon or after a sudden reduction in ambient pressure. Doppler ultrasound data is graded by expert raters on the Kisman-Masurel or Spencer scales that are associated to DCS risk. Meta-analyses, as well as efforts to computer-automate DU grading, both necessitate access to large databases of well-curated and graded data. Leveraging previously collected data is especially important due to the difficulty of repeating large-scale extreme military pressure exposures that were conducted in the 70-90s in austere environments. Historically, DU data (Non-speech) were often captured on cassettes in one-channel audio with superimposed human speech describing the experiment (Speech). Digitizing and separating these audio files is currently a lengthy, manual task. In this paper, we develop a graphical user interface (GUI) to perform automatic speech recognition and aid in Non-speech and Speech separation. This constitutes the first study incorporating speech processing technology in the field of diving research. If successful, it has the potential to significantly accelerate the reuse of previously-acquired datasets. The recognition task incorporates the Google speech recognizer to detect the presence of human voice activity together with corresponding timestamps. The detected human speech is then separated from the audio Doppler ultrasound within the developed GUI. Several experiments were conducted on recently digitized audio Doppler recordings to corroborate the effectiveness of the developed GUI in recognition and separations tasks, and these are compared to manual labels for Speech timestamps. The following metrics are used to evaluate performance: the average absolute differences between the reference and detected Speech starting points, as well as the percentage of detected Speech over the total duration of the reference Speech. Results have shown the efficacy of the developed GUI in Speech/Non-speech component separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Azarang
- Biomedical Engineering Department of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - S. Lesley Blogg
- SLB Consulting, Winton, Cumbria, United Kingdom
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA, United
States of America
| | - Joshua Currens
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| | - Rachel M. Lance
- Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Environmental Physiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Richard E. Moon
- Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Environmental Physiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Peter Lindholm
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA, United
States of America
| | - Virginie Papadopoulou
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
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19
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Fan JF, Wang YK, Liu M, Liu GS, Min TJ, Chen RY, He Y. Effect of angiotensin II on irradiation exacerbated decompression sickness. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11659. [PMID: 37468556 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38752-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In some complicated situations, decompression sickness (DCS) combined with other injuries, such as irradiation, will seriously endanger life safety. However, it is still unclear whether irradiation will increase the incidence of DCS. This study was designed to investigate the damage effects of irradiation on decompression injury and the underlying mechanism. Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to irradiation followed by hyperbaric decompressing and the mortality and decompression symptoms were observed. Lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were collected to detect the lung lesion, inflammation response, activity of the angiotensin system, oxidative stress, and relative signal pathway by multiple methods, including Q-PCR, western blot, and ELISA. As a result, pre-exposure to radiation significantly exacerbated disease outcomes and lung lesions of DCS. Mechanically, the up-regulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme expression and angiotensin II levels was responsible for the exacerbated DCS and lung lesions caused by predisposing irradiation exposure. Oxidative stress and PI3K/AKT signal pathway activation in pulmonary tissue were enhanced after irradiation plus decompression treatment. In conclusion, our results suggested that irradiation could exacerbate lung injury and the outcomes of DCS by activating the angiotensin system, which included eliciting oxidative stress and activation of the PI3K/AKT signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Fu Fan
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Yang-Kai Wang
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Min Liu
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Guang-Sheng Liu
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Tian-Jiao Min
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Rui-Yong Chen
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China.
| | - Ying He
- Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China.
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20
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Fakkert RA, Karlas N, Schober P, Weber NC, Preckel B, van Hulst RA, Weenink RP. Early hyperbaric oxygen therapy is associated with favorable outcome in patients with iatrogenic cerebral arterial gas embolism: systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis of observational studies. Crit Care 2023; 27:282. [PMID: 37434172 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-023-04563-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Iatrogenic cerebral arterial gas embolism (CAGE) caused by invasive medical procedures may be treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Previous studies suggested that initiation of HBOT within 6-8 h is associated with higher probability of favorable outcome, when compared to time-to-HBOT beyond 8 h. We performed a group level and individual patient level meta-analysis of observational studies, to evaluate the relationship between time-to-HBOT and outcome after iatrogenic CAGE. METHODS We systematically searched for studies reporting on time-to-HBOT and outcome in patients with iatrogenic CAGE. On group level, we meta-analyzed the differences between median time-to-HBOT in patients with favorable versus unfavorable outcome. On individual patient level, we analyzed the relationship between time-to-HBOT and probability of favorable outcome in a generalized linear mixed effects model. RESULTS Group level meta-analysis (ten studies, 263 patients) shows that patients with favorable outcome were treated with HBOT 2.4 h (95% CI 0.6-9.7) earlier than patients with unfavorable outcome. The generalized linear mixed effects model (eight studies, 126 patients) shows a significant relationship between time-to-HBOT and probability of favorable outcome (p = 0.013) that remains significant after correcting for severity of manifestations (p = 0.041). Probability of favorable outcome decreases from approximately 65% when HBOT is started immediately, to 30% when HBOT is delayed for 15 h. CONCLUSIONS Increased time-to-HBOT is associated with decreased probability of favorable outcome in iatrogenic CAGE. This suggests that early initiation of HBOT in iatrogenic CAGE is of vital importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul A Fakkert
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Noa Karlas
- Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick Schober
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nina C Weber
- Laboratory of Experimental Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Benedikt Preckel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert A van Hulst
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert P Weenink
- Department of Anesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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21
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Lee HJ, Lim DS, Lee J, Lee DG, Oh MY, Park J, Kim CH, Jung JH, Choi RK, Kang YC. Decompression Illness in Divers With or Without Patent Foramen Ovale : A Cohort Study. Ann Intern Med 2023. [PMID: 37429031 DOI: 10.7326/m23-0260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In previous studies, the prevalence of patent foramen ovale (PFO) has been reported to be higher in scuba divers who experienced decompression illness (DCI) than in those who did not. OBJECTIVE To assess the association between PFO and DCI in scuba divers. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary cardiac center in South Korea. PARTICIPANTS One hundred experienced divers from 13 diving organizations who did more than 50 dives per year. MEASUREMENTS Participants had transesophageal echocardiography with a saline bubble test to determine the presence of a PFO and were subsequently divided into high- and low-risk groups. They were followed using a self-reported questionnaire while blinded to their PFO status. All of the reported symptoms were adjudicated in a blinded manner. The primary end point of this study was PFO-related DCI. Logistic regression analysis was done to determine the odds ratio of PFO-related DCI. RESULTS Patent foramen ovale was seen in 68 divers (37 at high risk and 31 at low risk). Patent foramen ovale-related DCI occurred in 12 divers in the PFO group (non-PFO vs. high-risk PFO vs. low-risk PFO: 0 vs. 8.4 vs. 2.0 incidences per 10 000 person-dives; P = 0.001) during a mean follow-up of 28.7 months. Multivariable analysis showed that high-risk PFO was independently associated with an increased risk for PFO-related DCI (odds ratio, 9.34 [95% CI, 1.95 to 44.88]). LIMITATION The sample size was insufficient to assess the association between low-risk PFO and DCI. CONCLUSION High-risk PFO was associated with an increased risk for DCI in scuba divers. This finding indicates that divers with high-risk PFO are more susceptible to DCI than what has been previously reported and should consider either refraining from diving or adhering to a conservative diving protocol. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE Sejong Medical Research Institute.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jong Lee
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon Sejong Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea (H.L., D.S.L., J.P., C.K., J.J.)
| | - Dal Soo Lim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon Sejong Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea (H.L., D.S.L., J.P., C.K., J.J.)
| | - Juneyoung Lee
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea (J.L.)
| | - Dong-Geun Lee
- Department of Neurology, Pyeongtaek St. Mary's Hospital, Pyeongtaek, South Korea (D.L.)
| | - Mi-Young Oh
- Department of Neurology, Bucheon Sejong Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea (M.O.)
| | - Jinsik Park
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon Sejong Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea (H.L., D.S.L., J.P., C.K., J.J.)
| | - Chi-Hoon Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon Sejong Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea (H.L., D.S.L., J.P., C.K., J.J.)
| | - Ji-Hyun Jung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon Sejong Hospital, Bucheon, South Korea (H.L., D.S.L., J.P., C.K., J.J.)
| | - Rak Kyeong Choi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Incheon Sejong Hospital, Incheon, South Korea (R.K.C.)
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van Riel L, van Hulst RA, van Hest L, van Moorselaar RJA, Boerrigter BG, Franken SM, Wolthuis RMF, Dubbink HJ, Marciniak SJ, Gupta N, van de Beek I, Houweling AC. Recommendations on scuba diving in Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome. Expert Rev Respir Med 2023; 17:1003-1008. [PMID: 37991821 PMCID: PMC10763569 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2023.2284375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although very uncommon, severe injury and death can occur during scuba diving. One of the main causes of scuba diving fatalities is pulmonary barotrauma due to significant changes in ambient pressure. Pathology of the lung parenchyma, such as cystic lesions, might increase the risk of pulmonary barotrauma. AREAS COVERED Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHD), caused by pathogenic variants in the FLCN gene, is characterized by skin fibrofolliculomas, an increased risk of renal cell carcinoma, multiple lung cysts and spontaneous pneumothorax. Given the pulmonary involvement, in some countries patients with BHD are generally recommended to avoid scuba diving, although evidence-based guidelines are lacking. We aim to provide recommendations on scuba diving for patients with BHD, based on a survey of literature on pulmonary cysts and pulmonary barotrauma in scuba diving. EXPERT OPINION In our opinion, although the absolute risks are likely to be low, caution is warranted. Given the relative paucity of literature and the potential fatal outcome, patients with BHD with a strong desire for scuba diving should be informed of the potential risks in a personal assessment. If available a diving physician should be consulted, and a low radiation dose chest computed tomography (CT)-scan to assess pulmonary lesions could be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. van Riel
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - RA. van Hulst
- Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - L. van Hest
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - RJA. van Moorselaar
- Department of Urology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - BG. Boerrigter
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - SM. Franken
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - RMF. Wolthuis
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - HJ. Dubbink
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - SJ. Marciniak
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Royal Papworth Hospital, Trumpington, Cambridge, UK
| | - N. Gupta
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - I. van de Beek
- Family Cancer Clinic, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - AC. Houweling
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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23
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Peppas S, Palaiodimos L, Nagraj S, Kokkinidis DG, Tiwari N, Kharawala A, Mojadidi MK, Mojaddedi S, Ntaios G, Faillace RT, Tobis JM. Right-to-Left Shunt in Divers with Neurological Decompression Sickness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11101407. [PMID: 37239692 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11101407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the association between the presence of a right-to-left shunt (RLS) and neurological decompression sickness (NDCS) and asymptomatic brain lesions among otherwise healthy divers. BACKGROUND Next to drowning, NDCS is the most severe phenotype of diving-related disease and may cause permanent damage to the brain and spinal cord. Several observational reports have described the presence of an RLS as a significant risk factor for neurological complications in divers, ranging from asymptomatic brain lesions to NDCS. METHODS We systematically reviewed the MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases from inception until November 2021. A random-effects model was used to compute odds ratios. RESULTS Nine observational studies consisting of 1830 divers (neurological DCS: 954; healthy divers: 876) were included. RLS was significantly more prevalent in divers with NDCS compared to those without (62.6% vs. 27.3%; odds ratio (OR): 3.83; 95% CI: 2.79-5.27). Regarding RLS size, high-grade RLS was more prevalent in the NDCS group than the no NDCS group (57.8% versus 18.4%; OR: 4.98; 95% CI: 2.86-8.67). Further subgroup analysis revealed a stronger association with the inner ear (OR: 12.13; 95% CI: 8.10-18.17) compared to cerebral (OR: 4.96; 95% CI: 2.43-10.12) and spinal cord (OR: 2.47; 95% CI: 2.74-7.42) DCS. RLS was more prevalent in divers with asymptomatic ischemic brain lesions than those without any lesions (46.0% vs. 38.0%); however, this was not statistically significant (OR: 1.53; 95% CI: 0.80-2.91). CONCLUSIONS RLS, particularly high-grade RLS, is associated with greater risk of NDCS. No statistically significant association between RLS and asymptomatic brain lesions was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyros Peppas
- Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Leonidas Palaiodimos
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Sanjana Nagraj
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Damianos G Kokkinidis
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University/Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Nidhish Tiwari
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Amrin Kharawala
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Mohammad K Mojadidi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Sanauallah Mojaddedi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - George Ntaios
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 382 21 Larissa, Greece
| | - Robert T Faillace
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Jonathan M Tobis
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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24
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Tarozzi I, Franceschetti L, Simonini G, Raddi S, Machado D, Bugelli V. Black box of diving accidents: Contribution of forensic underwater experts to three fatal cases. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 346:111642. [PMID: 36963130 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Diving is a popular activity, largely practiced worldwide. Diving fatalities are not rare events, with drowning being the most common cause of death, followed by cardiac-related natural causes, immersion pulmonary edema and arterial gas embolism. In such cases, positive signs of drowning are not specific, depending also on the time of submersion of corpses. Moreover, drowning can be the terminal event. Over the years, measures to perform appropriate post-mortem examination in cases of diving fatalities were suggested, including the execution of post-mortem CT-scan, the use of a decompression chamber and the adoption of specific autoptic techniques. Although a multidisciplinary approach in forensic investigations concerning diving fatalities is discussed, poor cases focus on how the analysis of diving computer records and equipment can contribute to determining the cause of death. The present study shows how the cooperation between a forensic underwater expert and a forensic pathologist played a crucial role in interpreting radiological findings, guiding the autopsy and confirming/denying circumstantial data emerging from the investigations. Technical analysis of dive computer records and diving equipment is a fundamental step in the definition of the cause of death in diving fatalities. All diving computer data, not only those related to maximum depth and ascent's profile, should be considered in detail, and the immersion graph carefully studied by both the forensic pathologist and the forensic underwater experts. The diving technical data can often play a crucial role in explaining any legal issue related to the circumstances of death, possibly leading the prosecutor to further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Tarozzi
- Modena Local Health Unit, Department of Legal Medicine and Risk Management, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Franceschetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Sezione di Medicina Legale e delle Assicurazioni, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Luigi Mangiagalli, 37, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | | | - Silvia Raddi
- Health Science Department, Forensic Pathology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Davide Machado
- South-East Tuscany Local Health Unit, Department of Neuroradiology, Grosseto, Italy
| | - Valentina Bugelli
- South-East Tuscany Local Health Unit, Department of Legal Medicine, Grosseto, Italy
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Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in Exhaled Breath Following a COMEX-30 Treatment Table. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13030316. [PMID: 36984755 PMCID: PMC10056109 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13030316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The COMEX-30 hyperbaric treatment table is used to manage decompression sickness in divers but may result in pulmonary oxygen toxicity (POT). Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath are early markers of hyperoxic stress that may be linked to POT. The present study assessed whether VOCs following COMEX-30 treatment are early markers of hyperoxic stress and/or POT in ten healthy, nonsmoking volunteers. Because more oxygen is inhaled during COMEX-30 treatment than with other treatment tables, this study hypothesized that VOCs exhaled following COMEX-30 treatment are indicators of POT. Breath samples were collected before and 0.5, 2, and 4 h after COMEX-30 treatment. All subjects were followed-up for signs of POT or other symptoms. Nine compounds were identified, with four (nonanal, decanal, ethyl acetate, and tridecane) increasing 33–500% in intensity from before to after COMEX-30 treatment. Seven subjects reported pulmonary symptoms, five reported out-of-proportion tiredness and transient ear fullness, and four had signs of mild dehydration. All VOCs identified following COMEX-30 treatment have been associated with inflammatory responses or pulmonary diseases, such as asthma or lung cancer. Because most subjects reported transient pulmonary symptoms reflecting early-stage POT, the identified VOCs are likely markers of POT, not just hyperbaric hyperoxic exposure.
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Kutz CJ, Kirby IJ, Grover IR, Tanaka HL. Aviation Decompression Sickness in Aerospace and Hyperbaric Medicine. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2023; 94:11-17. [PMID: 36757235 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.6113.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The U.S. Navy experienced a series of physiological events in aircrew involving primarily the F/A-18 airframe related to rapid decompression of cabin pressures, of which aviation decompression sickness (DCS) was felt to contribute. The underlying pathophysiology of aviation DCS is the same as that of diving-related. However, based on the innate multifactorial circumstances surrounding hypobaric DCS, in clinical practice it continues to be unpredictable and less familiar as it falls at the intersect of aerospace and hyperbaric medicine. This retrospective study aimed to review the case series diagnosed as aviation DCS in a collaborative effort between aerospace specialists and hyperbaricists to increase appropriate identification and treatment of hypobaric DCS.METHODS: We identified 18 cases involving high-performance aircraft emergently treated as aviation DCS at a civilian hyperbaric chamber. Four reviewers with dual training in aviation and hyperbaric medicine retrospectively reviewed cases and categorized presentations as "DCS" or "Alternative Diagnosis".RESULTS: Reviewers identified over half of presenting cases could be attributed to an alternative diagnosis. In events that occurred at flight altitudes below 17,000 ft (5182 m) or with rapid decompression pressure changes under 0.3 atm, DCS was less likely to be the etiology of the presenting symptoms.CONCLUSIONS: Aviation physiological events continue to be difficult to diagnose. This study aimed to better understand this phenomenon and provide additional insight and key characteristics for both flight physicians and hyperbaric physicians. As human exploration continues to challenge the limits of sustainable physiology, the incidence of aerospace DCS may increase and underscores our need to recognize and appropriately treat it.Kutz CJ, Kirby IJ, Grover IR, Tanaka HL. Aviation decompression sickness in aerospace and hyperbaric medicine. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(1):11-17.
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27
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Jüttner B, Wölfel C, Camponovo C, Schöppenthau H, Meyne J, Wohlrab C, Werr H, Klein T, Schmeißer G, Theiß K, Wolf P, Müller O, Janisch T, Naser J, Blödt S, Muche-Borowski C. S2k guideline for diving accidents. GERMAN MEDICAL SCIENCE : GMS E-JOURNAL 2023; 21:Doc01. [PMID: 37033772 PMCID: PMC10073983 DOI: 10.3205/000315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
For the purposes of this guideline, a diving accident is defined as an event that is either potentially life-threatening or hazardous to health as a result of a reduction in ambient pressure while diving or in other hyperbaric atmospheres with and without diving equipment. This national consensus-based guideline (development grade S2k) presents the current state of knowledge and recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of diving accident victims. The treatment of a breath-hold diver as well as children and adolescents does not differ in principle. In this regard only unusual tiredness and itching without visible skin changes are mild symptoms. The key action statements: on-site 100% oxygen first aid treatment, immobilization/no unnecessary movement, fluid administration and telephone consultation with a diving medicine specialist are recommended. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) remains unchanged as the established treatment in severe cases, as there are no therapeutic alternatives. The basic treatment scheme recommended for diving accidents is hyperbaric oxygenation at 280 kPa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Jüttner
- German Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Society (GTÜM)
- *To whom correspondence should be addressed: Björn Jüttner, Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany, E-mail:
| | | | | | - Holger Schöppenthau
- German Interdisciplinary Association for Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine (DIVI)
| | | | - Carmen Wohlrab
- Naval Medical Institute of the German Navy (SchiffMedInstM)
| | - Henning Werr
- Naval Medical Institute of the German Navy (SchiffMedInstM)
| | - Till Klein
- Association of German Hyperbaric Treatment Centers (VDD)
| | - Giso Schmeißer
- German Society for Occupational and Environmental Medicine (DGAUM)
| | | | | | - Oliver Müller
- German Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine (DGAI)
| | - Thorsten Janisch
- German Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine (DGAI)
| | - Johannes Naser
- Professional Association of German Anaesthesiologists (BDA)
| | - Susanne Blödt
- Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF)
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Lee HJ, Lim DS, Kang YC. Recurrent Decompression Illness Even After the Closure of Patent Foramen Ovale in a Diver. JACC Case Rep 2022; 5:101687. [PMID: 36636504 PMCID: PMC9830462 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2022.101687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a risk factor for the development of decompression illness (DCI) and a therapeutic target for preventing the recurrence of DCI because nitrogen bubbles generated during diving can be paradoxically embolized through the PFO. Here, we report the case of a diver who experienced recurrent DCI even after a successful PFO closure. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jong Lee
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sejong General Hospital, Bucheon, Korea,Address for correspondence: Dr. Hyun-Jong Lee, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sejong General Hospital, 91-121 Sosa 2-Dong, Sosa-Gu, Bucheon 14574, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dal Soo Lim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sejong General Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
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Currens J, Dayton PA, Buzzacott P, Papadopoulou V. Hyperbaric exposure in rodents with non-invasive imaging assessment of decompression bubbles: A scoping review protocol. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274241. [PMID: 36084114 PMCID: PMC9462730 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperbaric pressure experiments have provided researchers with valuable insights into the effects of pressure changes, using various species as subjects. Notably, extensive work has been done to observe rodents subjected to hyperbaric pressure, with differing imaging modalities used as an analytical tool. Decompression puts subjects at a greater risk for injury, which often justifies conducting such experiments using animal models. Therefore, it is important to provide a broad view of previously utilized methods for decompression research to describe imaging tools available for researchers to conduct rodent decompression experiments, to prevent duplicate experimentation, and to identify significant gaps in the literature for future researchers. Through a scoping review of published literature, we will provide an overview of decompression bubble information collected from rodent experiments using various non-invasive methods of ultrasound for decompression bubble assessment. This review will adhere to methods outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis and be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Literature will be obtained from the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Extracted sources will first be sorted to a list for inclusion based on title and abstract. Two independent researchers will then conduct full-text screening to further refine included papers to those relevant to the scope. The final review manuscript will cover methods, data, and findings for each included publication relevant to non-invasive in vivo bubble imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Currens
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Paul A. Dayton
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Peter Buzzacott
- Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Virginie Papadopoulou
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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30
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Indications for Emergent Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. CURRENT EMERGENCY AND HOSPITAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40138-022-00251-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Kim DJ, Han JW. Latent Class Analysis of Decompression Sickness Symptoms of Women Divers. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10071246. [PMID: 35885774 PMCID: PMC9317702 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10071246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the types of clinical manifestations of decompression sickness among women divers (haenyeos) in Jeju using latent class analysis and to identify factors related to the condition. A total of 527 haenyeos who received their certification in diving fishery from Jeju and were working from 15 March to 31 May 2021 were included in this study. According to the results of the study, the latent classes were classified into type 1, type 2, and mixed symptoms groups (Akaike information criterion (AIC) = 6587.29, Bayesian information criterion (BIC) = 6698.23, sample size-adjusted BIC (saBIC) = 6615.70). For personal characteristics, age (χ2 = 40.31, p < 0.001) and education level (χ2 = 28.15, p < 0.001) showed a significant difference by latent class type. For work-related characteristics, diving experience (χ2 = 29.99, p < 0.001) and break time (χ2 = 9.32, p = 0.011) showed a significant difference by latent class type. The health-related characteristics, menopausal period (χ2 = 40.10, p < 0.001), body mass index (χ2 = 14.80, p = 0.013), and fatigue level (χ2 = 58.23, p < 0.001), showed a significant difference by latent class type. Rather than approaching the management of work-related diseases simply from the work environment perspective, it is important to increase the availability of health professionals who are capable of continuous health monitoring and management of women divers in their workplace.
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Tuominen LJ, Sokolowski S, Lundell RV, Räisänen-Sokolowski AK. Decompression illness in Finnish technical divers: a follow-up study on incidence and self-treatment. Diving Hyperb Med 2022; 52:78-84. [PMID: 35732278 PMCID: PMC9527095 DOI: 10.28920/dhm52.2.74-84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Technical diving is increasing in popularity in Finland, and therefore the number of decompression illness (DCI) cases is also increasing among technical divers. Although hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) remains the standard of care, there are anecdotal reports of technical divers treating mild DCI symptoms themselves and not seeking a medical evaluation and possible recompression therapy. This study aimed to make an epidemiologic inventory of technical diving-related DCI symptoms, to establish the incidence of self-treatment and to determine the apparent effectiveness of different treatment methods. METHODS A one-year prospective survey with online questionnaires was conducted. Fifty-five experienced and highly trained Finnish technical divers answered the survey and reported their diving activity, DCI symptoms, symptom treatment, and treatment outcome. RESULTS Of the reported 2,983 dives, 27 resulted in symptoms of DCI, which yielded an incidence of 91 per 10,000 dives in this study. All of the reported DCI symptoms were mild, and only one diver received HBOT. The most common self-treatments were oral hydration and rest. First aid oxygen (FAO2) was used in 21% of cases. Eventually, none of the divers had residual symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of self-treated DCI cases was 27 times higher than that of HBO-treated DCI cases. There is a need to improve divers' awareness of the importance of FAO2 and other recommended first aid procedures and to encourage divers to seek medical attention in case of suspected DCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Tuominen
- Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Anaesthesia, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Corresponding author: Dr Laura Tuominen, Helsinki University, Yliopistonkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki, Finland,
| | | | - Richard V Lundell
- Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
- Diving Medical Centre, Centre for Military Medicine, Finnish Defence Forces, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne K Räisänen-Sokolowski
- Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
- Diving Medical Centre, Centre for Military Medicine, Finnish Defence Forces, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Pathology, HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, and Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
- DAN Europe Foundation, Finnish Division, Roseto, Italy
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Karimpour K, Brenner RJ, Dong GZ, Cleve J, Martina S, Harris C, Graf GJ, Kistler BJ, Hoang AH, Jackson O, Papadopoulou V, Tillmans F. Comparison of Newer Hand-Held Ultrasound Devices for Post-Dive Venous gas Emboli Quantification to Standard Echocardiography. Front Physiol 2022; 13:907651. [PMID: 35755430 PMCID: PMC9222333 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.907651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Decompression sickness (DCS) can result from the growth of bubbles in tissues and blood during or after a reduction in ambient pressure, for example in scuba divers, compressed air workers or astronauts. In scuba diving research, post-dive bubbles are detectable in the venous circulation using ultrasound. These venous gas emboli (VGE) are a marker of decompression stress, and larger amounts of VGE are associated with an increased probability of DCS. VGE are often observed for hours post-dive and differences in their evolution over time have been reported between individuals, but also for the same individual, undergoing a same controlled exposure. Thus, there is a need for small, portable devices with long battery lives to obtain more ultrasonic data in the field to better assess this inter- and intra-subject variability. We compared two new handheld ultrasound devices against a standard device that is currently used to monitor post-dive VGE in the field. We conclude that neither device is currently an adequate replacement for research studies where precise VGE grading is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamellia Karimpour
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | | | | | - Jayne Cleve
- Divers Alert Network, Durham, NC, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrew H Hoang
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | | | - Virginie Papadopoulou
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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