Outcomes in the treatment of inner ear decompression sickness with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a systematic review

A standardised method of examination and assessment of symptoms should be considered along with vestibular rehabilitation (or referral to this service). All divers should be counselled on PFO screening. A standard 3-month follow-up is recommended to allow for assessment of residual dysfunction / symptoms and discussion regarding returning to diving. Further research should focus on assessment of vestibular deficit / symptoms over time to assess efficacy of HBOT including the effects of delay to recompression and number of treatments. Laboratory testing should be utilised to determine the mechanism of injury and recovery.