Clinical, laboratory and X-ray findings of drowning and near-drowning in the Gulf of Aqaba.

Clinical, laboratory and X-ray findings in 34 victims of submersion are presented. Five people died and 29 survived (age range 12-60 years). Severe hypoxia was found in all patients (mean PO2 of 58 mmHg with some oxygen support). Arterial blood gas analysis showed significant metabolic acidosis in 19 patients and significant respiratory acidosis in 15 patients. Pulmonary oedema was the most common X-ray finding. Fourteen patients were put on mechanical ventilation on the basis of their clinical picture and blood gases analysis. Clinical and laboratory data are very similar to those reported in international studies.