Sportmedizinische Ambulanz der Bergischen Universität Wuppertal

Medical suitability test for diving

The Diving Fitness Examination (TTU) considers the various requirements and hazards of diving in order to minimize health risks.

The physical basis for the examination is the behaviour of various gases under pressure in regard to possible consequences of bubble formation in tissues and blood vessels. Pressure injuries to air-filled organs such as the middle ear, sinuses and lungs also pose in this context. Therefore a focus of the examination in addition to the assessment of the cardiovascular system and other physical and mental performance.

This results in the following scope of the investigation:

  • Anamnesis
  • clinical examination
  • ECG
  • Pulmonary function
  • If necessary, ergometry (exercise ECG) for risk factors and for persons aged 40 or older.

Furthermore there is a consultation on medication for diving as well as for bubble-free diving.

From a medical point of view, the examination intervals are 3 years at most, and 1 year from the age of 40. Shorter intervals are also recommended for in children and adolescences. These guidelines are in accordance with the guidelines of the Gesellschaft für Tauch- und Überdruckmedizin GTUEM (www.gtuem.org). The Society also provides a list of diving physicians with correspondingly qualified and certified doctors in diving medicine.

You will be treated as a private patient in our clinic and therefore you will be charged for the services. Since every examination is individual, we cannot exactly quantify the exact amount of the invoice beforehand. The accounting is done according to the GOÄ (Gebührenordnung für Ärzte). If you are a statutory health insurance patient, please contact your health insurance company to arrange for the costs to be covered. If you have any questions about the costs, please contact us by e-mail or telephone.