Hyperbaric Chamber
The hyperbaric chamber, an innovative treatment in the medical field, addresses and improves numerous conditions, not just musculoskeletal ones. Today, on our blog, we’ll explain why this treatment isn’t as groundbreaking as it seems… Hyperbaric medicine has been implemented for over 350 years! Join us in this new blog entry about the history of the hyperbaric chamber.
What is hyperbaric medicine?
Hyperbaric medicine is a medical specialty that uses oxygenation combined with increased pressure to treat various conditions. This therapy works by increasing the partial pressures of oxygen within a chamber that operates at a pressure higher than atmospheric and typically delivers oxygen at nearly 100%.
The beginnings of hyperbaric medicine
The history of hyperbaric medicine dates back to 1662, when British clergyman Henshaw developed the first hyperbaric chamber, known as the “domicilium.” Henshaw believed in the potential healing effects of his invention, which simulated atmospheric and climatic changes. In his view, this device could improve digestion, facilitate breathing, and prevent pulmonary infections. While his chamber did not significantly alter pressure, it laid the foundation for future advancements. Major strides in this field, however, did not occur until two centuries later.

The resurgence in the 19th century
In 1832, Frenchman Emile Tabarie presented a project to the French Academy of Scientists, reviving Henshaw’s idea. Tabarie designed an iron pneumatic chamber with compression and ventilation systems, allowing the physician to enter and exit without disrupting pressurization.
During the same era, Lange built a cylindrical chamber accommodating four people, equipped with systems to maintain a comfortable temperature. In Germany, Leibig designed a chamber with three interconnected compartments, improving ventilation and temperature control.
In 1837, Pravaz in Lyon, France, constructed the largest hyperbaric chamber of its time, capable of treating up to 12 patients with pulmonary conditions like tuberculosis and cholera. This period saw the opening of several centers in European cities, where therapy was offered in luxurious facilities.
The first mobile hyperbaric operating room
In 1877, French surgeon Fontaine developed the first mobile hyperbaric operating room, successfully performing 27 high-pressure surgeries. Fontaine planned to build a hyperbaric surgical amphitheater for 300 patients, but his untimely death prevented the project’s completion.
Expansion in North America
The first hyperbaric chamber in North America was built in 1860 in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. A year later, Corning constructed one in New York to treat nervous disorders. The most famous and widely used chamber in the United States was Cunningham’s in Kansas City in the 1920s, motivated by the influenza pandemic. Cunningham built a large chamber and treated various diseases, although his methods lacked solid scientific backing
The scientific development of hyperbaric medicine
Despite early advancements, hyperbaric medicine did not progress significantly until the physical and chemical properties of gases, particularly oxygen, were better understood. In the 1950s, cardiac surgeons began studying hyperbaric oxygen to improve blood oxygenation in patients with valvular and coronary diseases. For instance, Dr. Barnard in Sydney built a hyperbaric chamber at the Prince of Wales Hospital.
The development of hyperbaric medicine owes much to the discoveries of Paul Bert and Haldane, as well as the scientific use promoted by Dr. Boerema.
Today, this medical specialty continues to evolve, offering effective treatments for a wide range of medical conditions. At Syncrolab, we provide this revolutionary treatment to help people suffering from various pathologies.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information!
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
- Ablin JN, Lang E, Catalogna M, Aloush V, Hadanny A, Doenyas-Barak K, et al. Hyperbaricoxygentherapy compared to pharmacological intervention in fibromyalgia patients following traumatic brain injury: A randomized, controlled trial. PLoS One. 2023 Mar 1;18(3 March).
- Marshall Cavendish Corporation. Inventors and inventions. 2008;
- Oxigenoterapia Hiperbárica | PPT. (n.d.). Retrieved June 8, 2024, from https://es.slideshare.net/slideshow/oxigenoterapia-hiperbrica/61426007