Middle ear barotrauma associated with hyperbaric oxygenation treatment.

We investigated the signs and symptoms of middle ear barotrauma in 67 patients with hyperbaric oxygenation treatment as well as the influence of predisposing factors. Ear damage was classified into 5 grades on the basis of objective findings at otoscopic examination. The incidence of middle ear barotrauma assessed by objective criteria was 68.7%, and showed little variation with age or primary disease. On the other hand, the incidence assessed by subjective symptoms was lower than the objectively-based incidence in aged patients, those with severe neurological diseases, and those who had difficulties speaking. Patients with a trauma grade of 2 or more complained of severe symptoms and were appropriate candidates for treatment. It is considered that otoscopic examination should be performed in patients who undergo hyperbaric oxygenation treatment and that prior management of nasal and paranasal diseases is beneficial in the prevention and treatment of middle ear barotrauma.