Patent Foramen Ovale as a Risk Factor for Altitude Decompression Illness
Abstract
The relation between the presence of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and the risk of decompression illness (DCI) remains controversial. PFO is a common finding in the general population with an autopsy prevalence of about 25%. Recent review articles in the diving literature have concluded the presence of a PFO may increase the relative risk for DCI but the absolute risk remains low. In space operations DCI is a significant concern for extravehicular activities (EVA) because of the low Suit pressure (the NASA EMU-suit pressure is 4.3 psia equivalent to about 30,000 feet).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADP011061
Entities
People
- Gary Gray
- Patrick J. Sullivan
- Ronald Y. Nishi
Organizations
- Canadian Space Agency