Pushing Scuba to New Heights: Approach, Decompression, and Logistical Considerations for High-Altitude Diving

Abstract

Yoder, Taylor L., Kreager A. Taber, Laurens E. Howle, and Richard E. Moon. Pushing scuba to new heights: approach, decompression, and logistical considerations for high-altitude diving. High Alt Med Biol. 26:109-117, 2025.-There is interest among technical, expedition, commercial, and military divers in expanding diving operations to high altitude. However, altitude diving presents unique challenges including acclimatization, increased decompression sickness (DCS) risk, and logistical and equipment considerations. Divers must plan altitude acclimatization strategies conservatively to reduce risk of acute mountain sickness and dehydration before diving. Several methods of augmenting sea level diving tables to be used at altitude have been theorized and tested both in simulated dives and high-altitude expeditions. With proper acclimatization, augmentation of standard diving tables, equipment, and safety planning, diving at high altitude may be performed in many contexts safely while minimizing risk of DCS or injury.

Keywords: altitude; decompression sickness; hypoxia; self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (Partner).