Middle Ear Barotraumas in Commercial Aircrew

BACKGROUND: Middle ear (ME) barotraumas are the most common condition in aviation medicine, sometimes seriously compromising flight safety. Considering this and ever-increasing amount of commercial aviation, a detailed overview is warranted. METHODS: In survey study, an anonymous, electronic questionnaire was distributed to aircrew three major airlines operating Finland ( N 3799), covering 93% target population (i.e., all Finland, 4083). Primary outcomes were self-reported prevalence, clinical characteristics, health occupational effects ME flight. Secondary adjusted odds ratios (OR) for frequency with respect possible risk factors. RESULTS: Response rate 47% 1789/3799), 85% 1516) having experienced Of those affected, 60% had used medications, 5% undergone surgical procedures, 48% been on sick leave due (40% during last year). Factors associated included high number upper respiratory tract infections [3 URTIs/yr vs. 0 URTIs/yr: OR, 9.02; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.9920.39] poor subjective performance Valsalva (occasionally always successful: 7.84; CI 3.9715.51) Toynbee 9.06; 2.6730.78) maneuvers. CONCLUSION: reported by aircrew. They lead increased need otorhinolaryngology-related sickness absence from duty. Possible factors include URTIs pressure equalization Lindfors OH, Ketola KS, Klockars TK, Leino Sinkkonen ST. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(3):182189.