Abdominal CT Scan Findings of Decompression Sickness: A Case Report

Persistent extravascular bubbles on radiologic imaging after recompression treatment for decompression sickness: A case report

Decompression sickness (DCS) is a condition arising when dissolved inert gas in tissue forms extravascular and/or intravascular bubbles during or after depressurisation. Patients are primarily treated with 100% oxygen and recompression, which is often assumed to lead to resolution of bubbles. After this, repeated hyperbaric exposures can be provided in case of persistent symptoms, with oxygen delivery to ischaemic tissues, anti-inflammatory properties and reduction of oedema considered the main mechanisms of action. In this case report we present the history and imaging of a diver diagnosed with DCS that was treated with two US Navy Treatment Table 6 recompressions, but who still had multiple extravascular bubbles apparent on CT-imaging after these hyperbaric treatments. Based on these findings we hypothesise that, contrary to general belief, it is possible that large extravascular bubbles can persist after definitive treatment for DCS.