Advances in prevention and treatment of altitude decompression sickness in aviation medicine

Altitude decompression sickness refers to rapid reduction of atmospheric pressure during flight at a certain altitude. Nitrogen dissolved in body tissues and body fluids is supersaturated and segregated to form bubbles, compressing or embolizing local tissues. Altitude decompression sickness is a common aviation disease. The exposure of high altitude and low pressure makes pilots face the risk of altitude decompression sickness. Previously, scholars have done significant work on etiology, prevention, and treatment of altitude decompression sickness. In recent years, with the continuous improvement of aircraft performance, the prevention and treatment of altitude decompression sickness is facing new challenges. This article reviews recent progress in the etiology, treatment and prevention of altitude decompression disease.