Original Article
Effects of deep helium-oxygen diving on divers’ pulmonary function
Sun Yongjun, Fu Guoju, Yang Tao, Bao Xiaochen
Published 2021-10-28
Cite as Chin J Naut Med & Hyperbar Med, 2021, 28(5): 653-655,658. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn311847-20201027-00409
Abstract
ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of a single deep helium-oxygen (heliox) diving on divers’ pulmonary function.
MethodsIn April 2019, 15, 5, and 6 male divers of the Second Detachment of Risk Prevention and Rescue were selected to perform the 80 m, 100 m, and 120 m heliox diving, respectively. Their pulmonary functions were measured before, immediately after, and 24 h after diving.
ResultsThe forced expired volume in one second (FEV1.0) / forced vital capacity (FVC), and maximum expiratory flow at 25% of vital capacity (MEF25%) of divers immediately after 80 m heliox diving were lower than those before diving, and there were statistically significant differences (P<0.05). The FEV1.0, FEV1.0/FVC, peak expiratory flow (PEF), and maximum expiratory flow at 75% of vital capacity (MEF75%) of divers immediately after 100 m and 120 m heliox diving presented a decreasing trend, but there was no statistically significant difference(P>0.05). The results of the above measurements 24 h after the diving rebounded close to the levels before diving.
ConclusionA single deep heliox diving can cause temporary expiratory and small airway dysfunction, which will disappear 24 h after the diving.
Key words:
Helium-oxygen diving; Deep; Pulmonary function; Effects
Contributor Information
Sun Yongjun
Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
Fu Guoju
Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
Yang Tao
Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
Bao Xiaochen
Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China