The Otologic Manifestations of Barotrauma

Barotrauma is defined as an injury due to pressure differences between atmospheric and intratympanic pressures. Human beings are well suited to operate within an environment involving small alterations in atmospheric pressure. Man's persistence in operating outside this environment leads to exposure to large pressure differentials with resulting trauma. External, middle, and inner ear structures can all be injured due to alterations in pressure. The increase in popularity of sport diving and aviation travel has led to an increase in the number of otologic injuries caused by barotrauma. The physics, pathophysiology, symptoms, and treatment of barotrauma are presented.