The Development History of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a method that utilizes a high-pressure environment and pure oxygen or high concentrations of oxygen to treat various hypoxic diseases and related conditions. Its development history can be traced back to early diving and underwater operations, which laid the foundation for subsequent hyperbaric oxygen medicine.

At the end of the 19th century, with the development of diving technology, people began to realize the potential therapeutic effects of breathing pure oxygen in high-pressure environments for certain diseases. The exploration during this period mainly focused on decompression sickness and other related health issues encountered by divers during underwater operations.

In 1921, the United States began to explore the application of hyperbaric oxygen in the medical field. During this period, the construction and use of hyperbaric chambers provided an important material basis for the development of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. With the discovery of oxygen and a deeper understanding of its physiological effects, hyperbaric oxygen medicine began its second wave of development.

Over time, the clinical applications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy have gradually expanded. It has been used to treat acute carbon monoxide poisoning, acute decompression sickness, acute gas embolism, and other diseases. In addition, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is also used as one of the comprehensive treatment measures, combined with other treatment methods to improve therapeutic effects.

Entering the 21st century, research and application of hyperbaric oxygen therapy continue to deepen. Modern research not only focuses on the traditional applications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy but also explores its potential in treating chronic diseases, promoting wound healing, and improving immune function. With technological advancements, the design of hyperbaric oxygen chambers and treatment procedures are also being continuously optimized to enhance the safety and effectiveness of treatment.

Looking to the future, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is expected to play a more important role in the medical field. With a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of hypoxic diseases and related diseases, as well as the accumulation of clinical application experience of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, this treatment method will bring hope to more patients. At the same time, with the development of personalized and precision medicine, personalized treatment plans for hyperbaric oxygen therapy will also be further explored and realized.