Arterial gas embolism in a Special Forces combat dive student during free-swimming ascent training: A case study

Abstract

Free-swimming ascent is taught to military divers and submariners as a self-rescue technique in the event of an emergency or a planned covert surfacing technique. Although this technique is infrequently used, it is considered a high-risk training event due to the risk and subsequent high morbidity and mortality of pulmonary barotrauma from pulmonary over-inflation injury. This case study will illustrate an example of a pulmonary overinflation injury and arterial gas embolism in an Army Special Forces Combat Diver who had no violation of technique while conducting a 50 foot free-swimming ascent to training standards and under the supervision of experienced Dive Supervisors. Additionally, the issue of allowing such individuals to return to diving is discussed.