Decompression sickness of medical personnel of a hyperbaric centre: A report of cases during 25 years of activity

Medical hyperbaric sessions for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, conducted at 2.4-2.5 ATA for 80 to 120 minutes, expose staff to increased risk of DCS due to the inhalation of compressed air, which increases gas solubility in body fluids as per Henry's Law. This study evaluates the incidence and risk factors of decompression sickness (DCS) among medical personnel in a hyperbaric centre over a 25-year period. Decompression sickness, characterized by gas bubble formation in tissues during planned decompression, was documented in 6 cases among 41,507 sessions. Symptoms varied from mild cutaneous to severe neurological manifestations, dependent on bubble size and location. Risk factors identified include age, physical condition, dehydration, and BMI. Preventative measures included adherence to decompression protocols, hydration, oxygen pre-breathing, and physical fitness maintenance. Despite these precautions, the occurrence of DCS underscores the inherent occupational risk faced by hyperbaric medical staff. The study advocates for stringent safety protocols and continuous monitoring to mitigate this risk.