Preliminary Report on Aeroembolism and Equipment for Oxygen Inhalation.
Abstract
Two serious problems in aviation are: (1) Aeroembolism or the evolution of gas bubbles in the blood of aviators subjected to rapid, high altitude ascents, and (2), Lack of adequate facilities for oxygen inhalation. Deep Sea Divers develop bends following rapid ascent to simulated altitudes. Bends, consisting essentially of pains in the extremities usually in the region of the joints, are caused by the evolution in the blood of bubbles consisting of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and oxygen as integral parts. In aviation medicine the term 'Aeroembolism' is used to designate 'bends'. Removal of nitrogen dissolved in the body tissues by the inhalation of oxygen at the ground level or at altitudes up to 20,000 feet, eliminates all symptoms incident to simulated high altitude flight. Data reveal that the symptoms manifested at high altitudes are the same as diver's bends, and identical regions of the body are frequently affected as a result of exposures in high or low pressure atmospheres. It may be said perhaps that the altitude bends are milder; certainly recovery is more rapid. However, it should be stressed that the time factor is of great importance. Were exposures prolonged at high altitudes, mild degrees of aeroembolism might develop into severe injury manifested by cerebro-spinal injury, asphyxia, and cortical involvement as a result of anoxemia.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 26, 1940
- Accession Number
- ADA043702
Entities
People
- A. R. Behnke
- T. L. Willmon
Organizations
- United States Navy Experimental Diving Unit