Decompression - ț̢
Decompression external to the body, most often the slow lessening of external pressure on the whole body (especially in caisson workers, deep sea divers, and persons who ascend to great heights) to prevent DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS. It includes also sudden accidental decompression, but not surgical (local) decompression or decompression applied through body openings.
Synonyms :
Decompression Sickness - ț̢
A condition occurring as a result of exposure to a rapid fall in ambient pressure. Gases, nitrogen in particular, come out of solution and form bubbles in body fluid and blood. These gas bubbles accumulate in joint spaces and the peripheral circulation impairing tissue oxygenation causing disorientation, severe pain, and potentially death.
Decompression, Explosive - ț̢
A sudden loss of pressure in a pressurized cabin, cockpit, or the like, so rapid as to be explosive. (McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, 5th ed)
Synonyms : Explosive Decompression
Decompression, Surgical - ț̢
A surgical operation for the relief of pressure in a body compartment or on a body part. (From Dorland, 28th ed)