Accidents and Incidents During SCUBA-Diving Events in Children

作者：Winkler B^*; Tetzlaff K; Muth C M

来源：Deutsche Zeitschrift fur Sportmedizin, 2011, 62(2): 42-46.

• Barotrauma
• ADHD
• haematotympanon
• hematotympanon
• scuba diving

Introduction: Scuba diving has become a popular recreational activity among children and adolescents. However, compared to data in adults. only scarce information is available with regard to both possible and actual complications of scuba diving. Methods: Any complications that could be observed in 44 boys and girls aged 8 to 15 years while participating in pediatric scuba-diving camps (max. dive depth 8m) were documented and analysed. Results: There were mild barotraumas of the nasopharyngeal cavities and middle ears subsequent to pressure equalization issues which necessitated premature termination of the scuba dive by 7 children. One child suffered from more severe middle ear barotrauma during diving. This child also had an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Analysis revealed that children who suffered from barotraumas were significantly younger than those who did not. Discussion: Barotrauma of the middle ear seems to be a frequent complication in scuba diving children. Younger children appear to be more likely affected. Hyperkinetic disorders may be a risk factor for pediatric diving injuries. Conclusion: Proper ENT evaluation is a crucial component of pediatric medical assessment determining fitness to dive. Careful observation of possible equalization issues by adult dive buddies could help to prevent these injuries. ADHD should be considered a contraindication to scuba diving.

• 出版日期2011