Conservative Management of Inner Ear Barotrauma Resulting from Scuba Diving

Fourteen patients who experienced inner ear barotrauma (IEBT) while scuba diving were examined shortly after the episode and were followed up until symptoms resolved or stabilized. On the basis of these observations and a review of the literature, three types of IEBT are hypothesized that usually result from forceful autoinflation of the middle ear: (1) hemorrhage within the inner ear, (2) labyrinthine membrane tear, and (3) perilymph fistula through the round or oval window. Presenting symptoms, treatment regimens, and final results are detailed.