Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Japan, Now and in the Future.

The principles of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) have been known since ancient times. Empirical knowledge regarding relief of decompression sickness (DCS) symptoms in divers re-entering a pressurized environment was reported as early as 4,500 BC. DCS was recognized as a disease after deep diving became possible because of diving helmets. DCS also occurs in high-pressure dry workspaces (caissons) developed to construct bridges and tunnels. After the discovery of oxygen in the 18th century, its administration was found to be beneficial in treating conditions that developed after rapid decompression, and HBOT is now established as a part of recompression therapy. This review describes the indications for HBOT in Japan and its effectiveness, as indicated by the author's experience with HBOT in the Department of Emergency Room and General Medicine at Nippon Medical School.