Prevalence and Factors Related to Dysbaric Osteonecrosis among Hyperbaric Chamber Inside Attendants of Naval Medical Department
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Abstract
Dysbaric osteonecrosis (DON) is a condition observed in hyperbaric chamber inside attendants, yet research on this topic remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of DON among hyperbaric chamber inside attendants under the Naval Medical Department. The study enrolled 37 hyperbaric chamber inside attendants from the Naval Medical Department. Research instruments included questionnaires collecting data on personal and occupational factors, and a record sheet for diagnosing DON based on the Ficat and Arlet classification. Factors associated with DON were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test. The study found the prevalence of DON to be 18.92%, with all cases classified as Grade 1. The hip joint was the most commonly affected area. Hyperbaric chamber inside attendants diagnosed with DON had a work duration ranging from 7 to 17 years, with an average of 11.43 years. The average daily exposure to hyperbaric pressure for these individuals was 5.836×10-3 ATA/kg.d. These findings suggest that hyperbaric chamber inside attendants with more than 7 years of work experience have an increased risk of developing DON. Furthermore, gender was found to be associated with the occurrence of DON. Therefore, screening for DON and its risk factors should be considered for operators before they begin their duties. It may also be advisable to consider job reallocation or reducing the number of hyperbaric operations for female operators. For hyperbaric chamber inside attendants diagnosed with DON, job reallocation and ongoing medical follow-up are recommended.
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