What is considered the most serious lung overexpansion injury?

The most serious lung overexpansion injury is classified as an air embolism. This injury occurs when gas bubbles get into the bloodstream and can lead to life-threatening complications. Air embolism often happens during ascent when a diver holds their breath, causing the air in the lungs to expand and rupture the lung tissue. When this happens, the air can escape into the bloodstream and travel to various parts of the body, causing blockages in blood vessels.

Mediastinal emphysema, while serious, typically involves air in the mediastinum and may not lead directly to life-threatening issues on its own. Pneumothorax involves air in the pleural space, which can also be serious but usually presents more localized respiratory distress rather than systemic issues like air embolism. Carotid sinus reflex is a physiological response and not directly related to lung overexpansion injuries. Understanding these distinctions highlights why air embolism is regarded as the most serious outcome of lung overexpansion injuries.