A review of cases of pulmonary barotrauma from diving.

Pulmonary barotrauma is a condition where lung injury arises from excessive pressure changes. Five cases of pulmonary barotrauma from diving have been seen at the Naval Medicine and Research Centre from 1970 to 1991. Four suffered surgical emphysema while one developed cerebral arterial gas embolism (CAGE). These cases are presented and discussed, including the predisposing factors, common signs and symptoms and essential treatment of this condition.