Abstract
Purpose: The frequent ascents made during yo-yo diving may contribute to gas bubble clearance but paradoxically may also increase the risk of central nervous system decompression illness (DCI). We evaluated the risk of DCI due to yo-yo dives with very short surface intervals, using a controlled animal model. Methods: Dives were conducted on air to a depth of 90 meters (10 atmospheres absolute) for 32 minutes of bottom time, at a descent/ascent rate of 10 meters/minute. Sprague-Dawley rats weighing ∼ 300 grams were divided randomly into three groups. Group A performed a square dive protocol without any surface intervals, Group B conducted a protocol that included two surface intervals during the dive, and Group C performed a protocol with three surface intervals. Ascent/descent rate for surface intervals, each lasting one minute, was also 10 meters/minute. Results: Manifestations of DCI were observed in 13 of 16 animals in Group A (81.3%), six of 12 in Group B (58.3%), and two of 12 in Group C (16.7%). Mortality rates were similar in all groups. Conclusions: Surface intervals during dives breathing air significantly reduced DCI risk in the rat. Further studies are required using a larger animal model to reinforce the results of the present investigation.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 405-410 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine |
Volume | 43 |
Issue number | 4 |
State | Published - 1 Jul 2016 |
Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© Copyright 2016 Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, Inc.
Keywords
- DCI
- Decompression illness
- Gas bubbles
- Yo-yo dive
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
- Physiology (medical)