Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Pittsburgh, PA
Medical-Grade HBOT at MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh
Located in Wexford—just north of downtown Pittsburgh—MD Hyperbaric delivers advanced, medically supervised Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to Western Pennsylvania. Nestled within the prestigious Connected Health Building at 12620 Perry Hwy, our Pittsburgh-area hyperbaric chamber center is equipped with hospital-grade, steel hard-shell hyperbaric chambers designed for maximum therapeutic impact.
Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, seeking relief from a chronic condition, or looking to optimize your wellness and brain health, our expert team at MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh is here to guide your healing journey with science-backed care and compassion.
- 412-556-7500
About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment where patients breathe 100% oxygen inside a high-pressure chamber. The increased atmospheric pressure allows oxygen to dissolve more efficiently into the bloodstream, saturating tissues and cells throughout the body. This dramatically accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, promotes the growth of new blood vessels, and stimulates the release of stem cells.
Benefits of HBOT Treatment at MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh:
- Faster injury and surgical recovery
- Enhanced cognitive clarity and brain function
- Reduced inflammation and pain
- Improved circulation and vascular repair
- Support for immune health and detoxification
- Anti-aging and longevity effects
Conditions We Treat at MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh
Our Pittsburgh HBOT center treats a wide spectrum of conditions using FDA-cleared protocols and medically guided off-label applications. We coordinate care with your referring physician and integrate personalized treatment plans for:
🧠 Brain & Mental Health
- Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Post-COVID brain fog
- PTSD, anxiety, and depression
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Memory issues and cognitive decline
⚕️ Chronic Conditions
- Lyme disease and autoimmune disorders
- Fibromyalgia, MS, and Parkinson’s
- Neuropathy, Alzheimer’s, and cerebral palsy
- Acute vision or hearing loss
- Autism spectrum disorders
💪 Recovery & Wellness
- Pre- and post-operative healing
- Athletic recovery and performance optimization
- Anti-aging, vitality, and cellular repair
- Immune System Support
Preparing for Your HBOT Treatment
What is Medical-Grade HBOT?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a proven treatment that enhances healing by flooding the body with oxygen. Used for over 100 years, it supports brain health, anti-aging, athletic recovery, and medical conditions by boosting oxygen in blood, tissues, and organs. Patients breathe 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, accelerating recovery and promoting cellular repair.
What conditions can be treated with HBOT?
HBOT is FDA-approved for 14 conditions like burns, carbon monoxide poisoning, and non-healing wounds. Emerging research also supports its use for post-surgical recovery, brain injury, fatigue, inflammation, athletic recovery, and anti-aging. Our medical team will assess if HBOT is right for you.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?
Yes, HBOT is safe when properly supervised. At MD Hyperbaric, treatments are protocol-driven, medically overseen, and administered by certified staff. Our Medical Director and onsite Safety Director ensure every session is carefully monitored, and we continuously update our protocols based on the latest research to prioritize patient safety.
How long is each session?
Typically, most treatment sessions are approximately 60 minutes (some conditions may require up to 90 or 120 minutes). In addition to the actual treatment time, there is time required for the pressurization and depressurization of the chamber, which may add 20 minutes to the overall appointment. The exact duration will depend on your specific treatment plan and the pressure levels used, but you should plan for about 90 minutes for your visit.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated. Some patients may benefit from a few sessions, while others may require a more extended treatment plan. A typical protocol will involve 10-40 daily sessions to build up oxygen in the cells. Our Medical Director will recommend a specific treatment plan to address your goals and needs.
How should I prepare prior to a session?
Prior to treatment, please try to avoid alcohol or carbonated drinks. It’s best to avoid smoking and any other tobacco products during your treatment period, as they may interfere with the body’s ability to transport oxygen. This can directly affect the time it takes you to heal, and under no circumstance can you smoke 2 hours before or after a session. Otherwise, there are no restrictions for food or activity before or after your treatment. We encourage you to have healthy meals and stay hydrated.
What should I wear or bring to my session?
Most patients find HBOT sessions relaxing. You’ll rest comfortably in a 7½-foot-long steel chamber, breathing 100% pure oxygen through a mask. The oxygen has no smell or taste. During pressurization and depressurization, you may feel pressure changes, similar to airplane travel. A trained technician will monitor you throughout the session. You can sit or lie down inside the chamber, and afterward, you can resume normal activities, stay hydrated, and rest.
Why is a HBOT treatment session called a “dive”?
The term “dive” is used because the process simulates the experience of a deep-sea dive in a pressurized environment. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has deep roots in diving as it is an important therapy in treating divers that are experiencing “the bends”. In the context of hyperbaric, pressure is increased to levels greater than atmospheric pressure, similar to what divers experience underwater.
What type of hyperbaric chamber do you use?
At MD Hyperbaric, we use the FDA-cleared OxyHealth Fortius420—a spacious, hard-shell chamber delivering 100% medical-grade oxygen via mask. Operating up to 3.0 ATA, it allows tailored pressures (typically 2.0–2.4 ATA) and supports air breaks for added benefits. With three windows and a 7½-foot length, it ensures comfort and meets the highest safety standards.
What is the difference between hard-shell and soft-shell hyperbaric chambers?
At MD Hyperbaric, we use hard-shell chambers that deliver 100% medical-grade oxygen at higher pressures for superior therapeutic benefits. In contrast, soft-shell chambers operate at lower pressures without medical-grade oxygen, making them less effective for medical treatment.
How do I know if I’m eligible for HBOT?
Our team will assess your medical history and specific circumstances through an intake process and initial evaluation with our certified staff and Medical Director will determine your eligibility for HBOT.
Do I need a referral from a doctor to receive HBOT?
No referral is needed. Our Medical Director will review your intake forms and prescribe HBOT if appropriate. If you have a prescription from a provider, we’ll coordinate with them. For serious health conditions, we may recommend getting clearance from your physician.
Do you accept insurance?
HBOT is generally not covered by insurance, though most FSA/HSA plans allow reimbursement (check with your provider). MD Hyperbaric is an out-of-network provider, so patients pay out-of-pocket. If you have one of the 14 insurance-approved conditions, reimbursement may be possible. We can provide a superbill and receipt to help you submit a claim to your insurer.
How much does it cost?
This is an out-of-pocket treatment and we offer a variety of pricing options designed to suit the different medical and financial needs and preferences of our patients. For flexibility, patients can opt for the pay-as-you-go plan at a per session rate. We also have several package options that offer sessions at a reduced rate when purchased upfront. Please contact us to discuss pricing and options. We accept cash, credit or check.
Tracy Thompson Warden - Owner and Hyperbaric Technician
Tracy is a seasoned healthcare executive, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Planning Administration and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) from Penn State.
A Pittsburgh-area native, Tracy’s career spans over three decades in various leadership roles, including VP of Operations at UPMC and CEO of Tri-State Orthopaedics, Tri-State Physical Therapy, and The Center for Musculoskeletal Evaluations. She is recognized for implementing transformative strategies, improving access and promoting innovative solutions in the healthcare industry. Tracy is also an active board member of the Chuck Noll Foundation, where she contributes to the foundation’s mission of advancing research related to the diagnosis and treatment of concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
Brian F. Jewell, MD - Medical Director
Dr. Brian F. Jewell is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with extensive expertise in sports-related injuries, knee replacement surgery, and advanced arthroscopic procedures.
As a Medical Director of MD Hyperbaric – Pittsburgh, Dr. Jewell brings a unique combination of orthopaedic, open water scuba diving and hyperbaric medicine expertise. A certified Open Water Scuba Instructor through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), he seamlessly applies his deep understanding of diving physiology to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). His specialized training and certification through the UHMS-approved Hyperbaric Medicine program equip him with the advanced knowledge and skills to oversee safe and effective hyperbaric treatments.
Brian F. Jewell, MD
MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh, Medical Director
Dr. Brian F. Jewell is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with extensive expertise in sports-related injuries, knee replacement surgery, and advanced arthroscopic procedures. A Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and a member of the Association of Professional Team Physicians, Dr. Jewell has been a trusted provider at Tri-State Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine since 1993. His excellence in the field has earned him the prestigious title of Top Doctor in Orthopaedic Surgery by Pittsburgh Magazine from 2021 to 2024.
Dr. Jewell’s professional journey includes a distinguished residency at Detroit Medical Center, where he served as Chief Resident, followed by advanced fellowship training in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery at Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke’s in Chicago. He earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Ohio.
His expertise extends beyond clinical practice—Dr. Jewell served as an Orthopedic Consultant for the Pittsburgh Pirates for nine years, and his entire career caring for professional, collegiate, and high school athletes, including All-Stars and Hall-of-Famers. For 25 years, he has also been a dedicated team physician for North Allegheny High School.
As a Medical Director of MD Hyperbaric – Pittsburgh, Dr. Jewell brings a unique combination of orthopaedic, open water scuba diving and hyperbaric medicine expertise. A certified Open Water Scuba Instructor through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), he seamlessly applies his deep understanding of diving physiology to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). His specialized training and certification through the UHMS-approved Hyperbaric Medicine program equip him with the advanced knowledge and skills to oversee safe and effective hyperbaric treatments.
With his unparalleled background in orthopaedics, diving, and hyperbaric medicine, Dr. Jewell is dedicated to enhancing patient recovery, optimizing performance, and advancing innovative treatment solutions at MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh. Read his full bio and Google Reviews.
Jack P. Failla, MD - Medical Director
Dr. Failla is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and former flight surgeon for the U.S. Navy. He served as orthopaedic consultant for the Pittsburgh Pirates for 23 years and pioneered sports medicine in Western PA. Recently completing the UHMS-approved Hyperbaric Medicine Course, Dr. Failla now blends clinical excellence with firsthand HBOT experience to support our patients’ healing and wellness.
Jack P. Failla, MD
MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh, Medical Director
Jack P. Failla, MD is Board Certified in Orthopaedic surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Dr. Failla resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and was a founding partner of Tri-State Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Failla earned a Baccalaureate Degree in mathematics-biology and chemistry and a Doctorate of Medicine at Marquette University. He performed a surgical internship at Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh, then graduated from the Naval Aerospace Medical Institute in Pensacola, Florida, and served as a flight surgeon in the United States Navy. Dr. Failla then returned to Pittsburgh for a one-year general surgery residency at Mercy Hospital and a three-year orthopaedic residency at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.
Some of Dr. Failla’s greatest contributions have been in the area of sports medicine. In 1979, he established the North Hills Sports Medicine Center – one of the first multidisciplinary sports medicine facilities in Western Pennsylvania. In 1981, he was named the Orthopaedic Consultant of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team and served in that capacity for 23 years. He also served as team physician for the North Allegheny High School varsity football team for nearly three decades. Dr. Failla has recently expanded his interest to the field of hyperbaric medicine.
Dr. Failla also successfully completed the three-month Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Medical Program at the Aviv Clinic in Florida during the summer of 2024. He personally experienced the anti-aging and wellness benefits of HBOT by undergoing daily sessions alongside a loved one suffering from chronic post-concussion symptoms. This intensive clinical program also incorporates cognitive and physical training, along with nutritional coaching, to help patients achieve their peak performance.
Dr. Failla is a Medical Director for MD Hyperbaric – Pittsburgh. He is a certified Hyperbaric Physician through the completion of the UHMS-approved Hyperbaric Medicine Course at International ATMO. This rigorous training program, recognized globally, has equipped Dr. Failla with advanced knowledge and practical expertise in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) which serves as a critical element in our service to patients.
MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh Leadership Team
Our Hyperbaric Therapy Care Team
Steven Wagner
Operations Manager, Safety Director, & Hyperbaric Technician
Steven Wagner
Operations Manager, Safety Director, & Hyperbaric Technician
Amy Mattson, RN
Hyperbaric Technician
Amy Mattson, RN
Hyperbaric Technician
Amy is a certified hyperbaric chamber operator at MD Hyperbaric-Pittsburgh. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Penn State and has gained extensive experience in various hospital settings, including Surgery, Trauma, and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with a particular focus on Pediatrics. Amy is passionate about her commitment to the holistic approach of wellness. Her goal is to ensure the clients not only receive the highest quality of care, but also the support and encouragement to achieve their wellness goals. In her downtime, Amy can be found in the great outdoors with her Lab, Izzy.
She enjoys hiking and exploring nature as well as a good game of pickleball.
Holly Manchini, RRT, CHT
Hyperbaric Technician
Holly Manchini, RRT, CHT
Hyperbaric Technician
Holly Manchini is a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) who brings over two decades of experience in healthcare, with a specialized focus in hyperbaric medicine since 2013. A graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Holly earned her Bachelor of Science in 2000 and began her career treating patients of all ages, with a strong clinical interest in CVU and ICU care.
Her passion for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) led her to not only practice but also teach the 40-hour certification program and safety courses, support new and developing HBOT facilities, and speak at industry conferences. Holly is deeply committed to hyperbaric safety and education—for both patients and facilities—and currently consults with the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) to help ensure accredited centers maintain the highest standards of safety, both nationally and internationally.
Outside of work, Holly enjoys reading, baking, and cheering on her favorite teams with her family on game days.
Ricardo Ferrari, PT, MS, PhD
Hyperbaric Technician
Ricardo Ferrari, PT, MS, PhD
Hyperbaric Technician
Ricardo has led numerous clinical and preclinical research projects focused on muscle regeneration, aging, ischemia, inflammation, and exercise-based recovery and healing strategies. His work has been widely published in leading scientific journals and presented at international conferences on topics such as sarcopenia, peripheral artery disease, and the cellular mechanisms of muscle repair.
At MD Hyperbaric–Pittsburgh, Ricardo brings his passion for healing and recovery to our clinical setting and combines his research expertise with a patient-centered clinical approach to help individuals thrive using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).
As a former professional soccer player, Ricardo remains deeply connected to the sport by coaching youth soccer—where he integrates movement science and athletic performance to support youth development in our community.
At MD Hyperbaric Your Safety is Our #1 Priority
At MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh, patient safety is our top priority and it’s key to our mission. We use the OxyHealth Fortius420, one of the safest FDA-cleared hyperbaric chambers available. Unlike other chambers, ours is pressurized with filtered air, not oxygen, significantly reducing the risk of hazards.
Our team of highly trained, IBUM-certified technicians and UHMS-certified medical directors follow strict safety regulations and ensure that every session is both safe and effective. From continuous monitoring to hands-on patient support, we provide the highest level of care during every treatment.
Why We Use OxyHealth Fortius 420 Chambers
Safety & Performance Redefined
Our OxyHealth Fortius 420 chambers are engineered to deliver exceptional safety and performance in hyperbaric therapy, ensuring that your experience is not only effective but secure. With zero safety incidents reported, we pride ourselves on maintaining an impeccable safety record.
Innovative Design for Maximum Safety
Unlike traditional chambers that fill their chambers with 100% oxygen to pressurize, significantly increasing [fire] risk, our Fortius 420 hardshell steel chambers operate on an “air-over-oxygen” concept. We fill our chambers with filtered air to pressurize to 1.3 to 3.0 ATA, we do not fill our chambers with oxygen. We deliver pure 100% oxygen directly through a mask during our treatments. By pressurizing with ambient air, we harness the full therapeutic benefits of pressure without the risks associated with oxygen-rich environments. In our program, oxygen is delivered to you through a non-rebreather medical mask ensuring a controlled and safe treatment experience.
ASME-PVHO-1 & FDA-Cleared Excellence
Every OxyHealth Fortius 420 chamber is ASME-PVHO-1 certified and FDA-cleared, meeting the highest industry standards for safety and reliability. This cutting-edge engineering makes our chambers one of the safest and most trusted options for high-pressure HBOT.
Committed to Your Safety
At MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh, we are dedicated to providing a secure, effective treatment environment. Our chambers allow us to take air breaks as directed by our medical team, further enhancing safety during your therapy. Trust us to deliver the highest level of care while prioritizing your well-being.
American Made
OxyHealth Fortius 420 chambers are proudly made and engineered in the U.S.A.
Your Source for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Pittsburgh
MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh is your partner in regenerative healing. Whether you’re a high-performance athlete, recovering from surgery, or managing a chronic health condition, we’re here to help you thrive with science-backed care. As the first medical-grade HBOT center in the region, MD Hyperbaric of Wexford and Pittsburgh offers personalized care backed by decades of clinical experience in orthopedics, sports medicine, and regenerative therapy.
Located just off Route 19 at at 12620 Perry Hwy, Wexford, PA 15090, we’re easily accessible from I-79 and within minutes of Cranberry Township, McCandless, and just north of AHN Wexford Hospital. Our state-of-the-art HBOT medicine office is located on the 1st floor of the Connected Health building and features spacious locker rooms, a private, secure environment, and an expert team that puts your safety and healing first.
Let's Connect
- 412-556-7500