Abstract
Effect of hyperbaric exposure on the normal ears was studied in 33 healthy volunteers.
High pressure was applied to the subjects for 35 minutes under 2 ATA (atmospheres absolute) condition in hyperbaric chamber. To evaluate the effect on the auditory physiological function, function, pure tone audiometry and tympanometry were performed. The results were as follows;
1) There were no barotrauma cases under hyperbaric condition.
2) No specific changes were found in pure tone audiometry.
3) Increased compliance of tympanic membrane was observed just after the high pressure exposure.
4) Increased compliance of tympanic membrane was almost recoverd 24 hours after the hyperbaric exposure.
