The accident injury matrix and its use in diving injury investigations.

A conceptual matrix is proposed for the comprehensive investigation and analysis of injuries resulting from diving accidents. Its use allows for the identification of factors which contribute to the occurrence of the injury, factors which directly cause the specific injury, and factors which affect the extent of injury as well as the return of the diver to health. Strategies may be developed from the use of this matrix to prevent the recurrence of specific injuries as well as to lessen individual morbidity or mortality, damage to equipment, and socioeconomic losses which ensue from these accidents.