Abstract

Aim. Nasal sinuses perviousness is an unavoidable condition to balance the pressure between paranasal cavities and external environment; morphostructural changes and specific and non-specific chronic inflammations can cause a barotraumatic sinusal damage. Methods. We studied a group of eleven scuba-divers that have shown the following anamnestic data: acute pain in maxillary, frontal and peri-orbitale regions during immersion. Results. Causative factors were anatomo-functional changes in seven athletes and allergic inflammation in four atlethes. To restore physiological function of osteo-meatal complex, we have chosen surgical treatment to correct mechanical obstruction of sinusal ostium in presence of anatomical defects while we have chosen medical treatment for allergic rhinosinusitis. Only two athletes have shown new symptoms during follow up. Conclusion. Athletes practise sporting activities with pressure changes (scuba-divers, breath-held divers, etc.), needs an accurate otorhinolaryngological examination to discover risk factors and to prevent barotraumatic damage.