Uncontrolled Decompression - Decompression Injuries

Decompression Injuries

The following physical injuries may be associated with decompression incidents:

• Hypoxia is the most serious risk associated with decompression, especially as it may go undetected or incapacitate the aircrew.
• Barotrauma: an inability to equalize pressure in internal air spaces such as the middle ear or gastrointestinal tract, or more serious injury such as a burst lung.
• Decompression sickness.
• Physical trauma caused by the violence of explosive decompression, which can turn people and loose objects into projectiles.
• Altitude sickness
• Frostbite or hypothermia from exposure to freezing cold air at high altitude.