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Expert Lectures

Comprehensive Otolaryngology

Diving into SCUBA Physiology: Diagnostic, Treatment, & Dive Fitness Recommendations

Saturday, October 11, 2025
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Location: 243
CME/MOC Credit: 1
Disclosure(s):
Daniel S. Roberts, MD PHD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Jonathan R. Mallen, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This session will serve as a truly comprehensive guide for otolaryngologists to diagnose, treat, and counsel SCUBA divers based on the highest quality evidence from around the world, considering evidence published from every language in which data is available. The first part of the session serves as a primer for those with limited background knowledge regarding diving terminology and underwater physiology. The second part of the session examines strategies patients can use to prevent injury in real time while diving, and will introduce practical algorithms for the recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of diving injuries. Finally, we take a deeper dive into the evidence behind diving suitability guidelines including recommendations for complex post-surgical patients. There will be a special focus on the role of eustachian tube balloon dilation. Free diving will also be covered.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Characterize SCUBA physiology and pathophysiologic mechanisms of diving illness with a focus on injury prevention strategies.
  2. Differentiate patients who are fit to dive and those with relative and absolute contraindications.
  3. Challenge current practices and misconceptions in treating recreational divers, including eustachian tube dilation, based on the most up-to-date evidence.

    Lead Presenter(s)

  • DR

    Daniel S. Roberts, MD PHD

    Associate Professor
    UConn Health
    Farmington, CT, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

    • Co-Presenter(s)

  • Jonathan R. Mallen, MD

    Physician
    Premier ENT Associates
    North Wales, PA, United States

    Disclosure(s):

    faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.