Cerebral arterial gas embolism in a diver using closed circuit rebreather diving apparatus.
A Singaporean naval diver suffered symptoms and signs of cerebral arterial gas embolism (CAGE) following a panicked ascent from a depth of 5-6 metres' sea water while using a Dräger LAR V closed-circuit oxygen rebreather system. He presented with altered mental status and paresis. CAGE due to gas mixtures with high oxygen content has seldom been reported. The diver had no sequelae following prompt recompression therapy. This positive clinical outcome may be attributable to the high oxygen content in the diver's inspired gas and/or the promptness of recompression.
Head Medical Officer, Medical Doctrine and Training Branch, Royal Singapore Navy Medical Service, AFPN 6060, 126 Tanah Merah Coast Road, Singapore 498822, Phone: +65-6544-4949, Fax: +65-6544-4955, E-mail: chong_sj@hotmail.com.
Si Jack
SJ
Chong
Teck Wei
TW
Tan