Tympanometric Evaluation of Middle Ear Barotrauma during Recreational Scuba Diving

S. M. Green; S. G. Rothrock; E. A. Green

doi:10.1055/s-2007-1021201

International Journal of Sports Medicine, Table of Contents

Int J Sports Med 1993; 14(7): 411-415
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021201

Tympanometric Evaluation of Middle Ear Barotrauma during Recreational Scuba Diving

S. M. Green¹ , S. G. Rothrock² , E. A. Green³

¹Departments of Emergency Medicine, Riverside General Hospital, Riverside, California, U.S.A.
¹ California Emergency Physicians Medical Group, Oakland, California, U.S.A.
²Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
³Intensive Care Unit, Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage, California, U.S.A.

Abstract

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Abstract

We report the first prospective evaluation of middle ear barotrauma in experienced recreational scuba divers. In this pilot study, tympanometric and otoscopic evaluations were performed daily on two experienced scuba divers engaged in multi-day repetitive diving. Middle ear pressures decreased in proportion to diving frequency, demonstrating eustachian tube dysfunction which promptly reversed upon cessation of diving Otoscopic evidence of traumatic injury to the middle ear occurred in proportion to diving frequency, and also readily reversed upon cessation of diving. Tympanic membrane compliance remained normal, often despite pronounced otoscopic abnormalities. Otologic symptoms and impairment of acuity were not observed. Tympanometry appears to be a valuable modality for the verification of middle ear hemorrhage or tympanic membrane rupture. This preliminary data should assist investigators in planning more comprehensive studies of middle ear barotrauma, including clinical trials of treatment and prophylactic interventions for this common condition.

Key words

Barotrauma - middle ear - tympanometry - scuba diving

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