[Sensorineural deafness and aerospace flight].

OBJECTIVE

To probe the relations between sensorineural deafness and flying in aviation or space.

METHOD

Case studies of sensorineural deafness were made in 36 pilots.

RESULT

Unilateral deafness (n=15) and bilateral deafness (n=21) were found in 36 pilots, with mild deafness (n=9), moderate deafness (n=37) and severe deafness (n=11) in 57 ears. 19 cases were permanently grounded and 17 cases were still in a qualified position to continue their flying job.

CONCLUSION

Sensorineural deafness may hazard the flying in aviation or space, meanwhile the flying in aviation or space may lead to or aggravate sensorineural deafness.