Literature on underwater blast effects in man and animals was reviewed with particular reference to its pathology, pathophysiology and therapy. Anatomic structures which contain air, i.e., lungs, enteric tract, nasal sinuses and middle ear were found to be most vulnerable to blast injury. An historical review of therapeutic procedures used in the treatment of blast injury was then presented. Factors found to be of greatest potential benefit in improving the dismal survival rate of underwater blast victims includes 1 prevention of air emboli, 2 maintenance of adequate ventilation and respiration and 3 timely surgical repair of enteric tract injuries.

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