Initial analysis of diving accidents treated at the Catalina hyperbaric chamber (1985 - 1988).

Abstract

Since October, 1974, the Catalina Hyperbaric Chamber has conducted over 570 diving accident treatments. This report is an initial evaluation of some diving accident related data collected from the patients treated during the period of January, 1985, through mid-August, 1988. 1985 brought a dramatic reduction in case load after 1984's 103 treatments, due to the opening of additional multi-place hyperbaric treatment facilities in the region. Training, experience, sex, and age were found related with the type of accidents experienced.