Conveniently located in Wexford (Pine Twp), a suburb of Pittsburgh, MD Hyperbaric is proud to offer medical-grade Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) services to the region. As the first of its kind in the area, our HBOT center is situated on the medical campus of the Connected Health Building and easily accessible from Route 19 in the North Hills. We offer spacious locker rooms for changing, securely storing belongings, and showering if desired. This medical building provides a safe, secure and private treatment suite for patients of all ages and a variety of conditions.
Our expert hyperbaric medicine team is dedicated to providing personalized care in a comfortable, professional, and welcoming environment. Experience the revitalizing powers of pure oxygen under pressure with medical-grade HBOT at our Wexford center.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please contact us by phone (412) 556-7500, email [email protected], or request an appointment using the link below.
Directions
Located at 12620 Perry Hwy, Wexford, PA 15090, our center offers ample free parking and a secure professional office building. Our hyperbaric medicine office is situated within the bustling Connected Health facility, housing the primary care concierge practice and a variety of health and wellness providers under one roof.
Our state-of-the-art HBOT office is located on the 1st floor of the Connected Health building. You will find us just north of AHN Wexford Hospital (off Route 19/Perry Highway), at the traffic light across from Walnut Grill restaurant, and behind the UPMC Specialty Care building. Centrally located and easily accessible, our center is less than 10 minutes from Interstate 79 (Wexford Exit), 10 minutes north of McCandless, and about 10 minutes south of Cranberry Township (from Rt 228 & Rt 19).
What is Medical-Grade HBOT:Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a well-established treatment for certain conditions and has been utilized for over 100 years, with recent studies highlighting its regenerative effects and wide-range health benefits for various medical conditions, anti-aging and athletic recovery. Medical-grade hardshell HBOT boosts the body’s natural healing process by significantly increasing the oxygen levels in the blood, tissues, and organs. During multiple one-hour HBOT sessions, our patients breathe 100% pure oxygen through a mask (compared to room air at 21%) inside a 7 ½ feet long pressurized steel chamber with windows. This process of combining pure oxygen under pressure accelerates recovery and promotes natural healing, stimulates the growth of new blood vessels improving blood flow and vascular functions, induces stem cell proliferation, reduces inflammation, fights infection, and enhances overall cellular repair.
It's important to note that “mild” hyperbaric softshell bags found at some wellness centers and spas (operating at much lower oxygen concentrations and pressures) do not deliver the same healing benefits as medically-supervised treatments in a pressurized hardshell chamber while inhaling 100% oxygen.
Treatment Injuries/Conditions: At MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh, we offer a full range of medically supervised HBOT services under the guidance of our Medical Directors. For specific injuries and conditions, we are happy to coordinate care with your physician and other healthcare providers.
Brain Health - Hyperbaric medicine is a viable treatment option for a wide range of brain and mental health conditions, including concussions, TBIs, Covid brain fog, PTSD, and depression.
Restorative Wellness & Recovery - HBOT has shown to be effective for general health and wellness, anti-aging, cognitive performance, athletic recovery, and pre- and post-surgery healing.
Medical Conditions - HBOT has shown promising results for various medical conditions such as stroke, migraines, Lyme disease, autoimmune disorders, Fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, dementia, MS, cerebral palsy, autism, acute hearing or vision loss and neuropathy, among others.
To complement your HBOT treatments, we will soon be offering Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG) brain mapping and baseline testing for patients with concussions, TBI/head injuries, brain fog and other brain-related / cognitive performance concerns. This non-invasive painless qEEG device records and measures electrical activity (brain waves) associated with behavioral and cognitive functions, allowing us to evaluate and monitor your brain health and cognitive performance. The qEEG metrics obtained from the brain’s frequency bands provide invaluable data for baseline assessments and tracking your progress over time. Read more about qEEG here.
What is Medical-Grade HBOT? Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a well-established treatment that has been utilized for over 100 years, with recent studies showcasing its regenerative effects and wide-ranging health benefits, including treatment for various medical conditions, brain health, anti-aging, and athletic recovery. Medical-grade hardshell HBOT enhances the body’s natural healing process by significantly increasing oxygen levels in the blood, tissues, and organs. During multiple sessions, patients breathe 100% pure oxygen (compared to room air at 21%) inside a pressurized environment. This combination of pure oxygen under pressure accelerates recovery, stimulates the growth of new blood vessels to improve blood flow and vascular functions, induces stem cell proliferation, reduces inflammation, fights infection, and enhances overall cellular repair.What conditions can be treated with HBOT? Currently, there are 14 FDA-approved conditions for hyperbaric oxygen therapy, including gas embolisms, burns, carbon monoxide poisoning, crush injury, decompression sickness, non-healing wounds, and others that are treated in a hospital environment. More recently, a growing body of scientific research supports the benefits of HBOT for off-label outpatient uses such as post-surgical recovery, traumatic brain injury/concussion, chronic fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, athletic recovery, and general wellness/anti-aging. Our hyperbaric medicine team will evaluate your specific needs to determine if HBOT is right for you.Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe? Yes, when administered under proper medical supervision, HBOT is considered safe. At MD Hyperbaric, your hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment is protocol-driven, backed by science, and is proven to be a safe and effective treatment option for many conditions. We prioritize safety by ensuring our staff is certified and trained, and engaging our Medical Director to oversee patient care and treatment plans. We also have an onsite Safety Director trained to manage our daily operations. Each session is carefully monitored by our certified staff, and we continually analyze new studies and clinical outcomes to update our treatment protocols to provide a safe experience for every patient.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? We recommend wearing loose, comfortable, clean and odor-free clothing of any fabric. Refrain from using perfume/cologne or heavy lotions/makeup/gels or anything with an odor (including smoke/vape of any kind). No vapes, lighters or other objects. We recommend you leave jewelry at home. We have spacious locker rooms available to change, store belongings and/or shower, if desired. We provide pillows and blankets, but for your comfort you are welcome to bring your own. We can also discuss entertainment options to make your session relaxing and enjoyable.What should I expect during and after a session? Most patients find the experience relaxing during the session. You will rest comfortably in the chamber while breathing 100% pure oxygen through an oxygen mask inside the chamber. The pure oxygen has no smell or taste. During the pressurization and depressurization phases, you may feel the change in pressure, similar to the sensation of airplane travel. Throughout the session, a trained technician will monitor you and check in to ensure your comfort and that the treatment is proceeding smoothly. Our medical grade steel chamber has 3 windows for monitoring, with internal dimensions of 7 ½ feet long and 3 ½ feet interior diameter. You may sit up or lay down in the chamber during your session. After your session, we encourage you to resume normal activities, eat, 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 OxyHealth Fortius420, a hard-shell FDA-approved chamber pressurized with air and capable of delivering supplemental 100% medical-grade oxygen to the patient through a mask. While some hard-shell chambers may be pressurized with oxygen (i.e. fill the entire chamber with oxygen), the OxyHealth Fortius420 delivers the same 100% oxygen to patients directly via a mask allowing for a more spacious, comfortable, and private chamber environment. The chamber also easily allows for air-breaks during the session to facilitate the therapeutic benefits of the hyperoxic-hypoxic paradox. The chamber operates at pressures ranging from 1.3 to 3.0 ATA, allowing for greater oxygen absorption and enhanced therapeutic benefits. We find that most conditions require 2.0 to 2.4 ATA pressure (and some at a lower 1.5 ATA for longer durations), but each patient will be evaluated individually, and specific treatment pressures will be determined by condition, history and medical protocols. Our chamber is made of steel, has 3 windows, and is 7 ½ feet long (so you can sit or lay during your session). The Fortius420 chamber is FDA-cleared, meeting the highest safety standards, and is ideal for treating a wide range of medical conditions.What is the difference between hard-shell and soft-shell hyperbaric chambers? Hard-shell chambers, like the ones we use at MD Hyperbaric, are capable of reaching higher pressure and delivering 100% medical-grade oxygen directly to the patient, significantly enhancing therapeutic benefits. Soft-shell chambers (or “mild” hyperbaric oxygen therapy) operate at lower pressures and do not use medical-grade oxygen, resulting in lower oxygen saturation levels. Hard-shell chambers are often preferred for medical treatments due to their superior oxygen delivery, rigorous safety testing, higher pressures, and overall effectiveness.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, you do not need a referral. You will complete confidential medical intake forms for review by our Medical Director and we will assess your needs and goals and then prescribe HBOT if appropriate. However, if you already have a prescription from a referring physician or healthcare provider, we encourage you to provide that and our medical team will work with your provider to confirm the best treatment plan for you. If you have serious health issues, we may suggest you obtain clearance or referral or script from you treating physician.Do you accept insurance? No, most HBOT services are not currently covered by insurances. However, services are eligible for reimbursement through most FSA/HSA programs (we recommend you check with your plan). MD Hyperbaric is an out-of-network provider, meaning we do not submit claims to insurance providers and patients must pay out-of-pocket for treatment. Generally, there is no coverage for the conditions we treat at our center. However, if you have one of the 14 insurance approved indications for HBOT, the chance of reimbursement is good. While we do not process insurance claims directly, we can provide you with a superbill and receipt upon request, which contains all the necessary details you would need to submit a claim to your insurance provider to request reimbursement for your sessions.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.
Pittsburgh - Leadership
Tracy Thompson Warden - Owner and Operator
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
Brian F. Jewell, MD is a Board Certified Orthopaedic surgeon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dr. Jewell has expertise in treating a variety of sports-related injuries and knee replacement surgery, among other conditions. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a member of the Association of Professional Team Physicians, and has been affiliated with Tri-State Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine since 1993. Dr. Jewell has been named a “Top Doctor” in Orthopaedic Surgery, survey conducted by Pittsburgh Magazine, 2021-2024.
Dr. Jewell completed his advanced fellowship training in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery at Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Hospital in Chicago, and completed his orthopaedic residency at Detroit Medical Center, where he was appointed Chief Resident. He received his medical degree from the Medical College of Ohio. Dr. Jewell served as an Orthopaedic Consultant for the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team for over 9 years and performed numerous surgeries for major and minor league professionals, and collegiate and high school athletes across various sports, including "All-Stars" and "Hall-of-Famers". Additionally, he has fulfilled the role of a team physician for North Allegheny High School for 25 years.
Dr. Jewell is a Medical Director for MD Hyperbaric – Pittsburgh. He is a certified divemaster and Open Water Scuba Instructor through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and is completing his hyperbaric medicine certification. His extensive training, experience, and knowledge in scuba diving are highly transferable to the principles of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), which involves breathing pure oxygen under pressure. Additionally, HBOT is a standard life-saving treatment for decompression sickness (the “bends”) in scuba divers. With his deep expertise in diving and medicine, Dr. Jewell has seamlessly integrated hyperbaric medicine into his skill set.
Jack P. Failla, MD - 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.
Pittsburgh - Team
At MD Hyperbaric Pittsburgh, we take pride in our highly skilled team of professionals, each bringing unique expertise to deliver the therapeutic benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to our patients. Our mission is to support your health and wellness by getting to know you personally, understanding your goals and concerns, and crafting a customized treatment plan that meets your needs.
Located at 12620 Perry Hwy, Wexford, PA 15090, our center offers ample free parking and a secure professional office building. Our hyperbaric medicine office is situated within the bustling Connected Health facility, housing the primary care concierge practice and a variety of health and wellness providers under one roof.
What is Medical-Grade HBOT: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a well-established treatment for certain conditions and has been utilized for over 100 years, with recent studies highlighting its regenerative effects and wide-range health benefits for various medical conditions, anti-aging and athletic recovery. Medical-grade hardshell HBOT boosts the body’s natural healing process by significantly increasing the oxygen levels in the blood, tissues, and organs. During multiple one-hour HBOT sessions, our patients breathe 100% pure oxygen through a mask (compared to room air at 21%) inside a 7 ½ feet long pressurized steel chamber with windows. This process of combining pure oxygen under pressure accelerates recovery and promotes natural healing, stimulates the growth of new blood vessels improving blood flow and vascular functions, induces stem cell proliferation, reduces inflammation, fights infection, and enhances overall cellular repair.
COMING SOON: Brain Health Evaluations/qEEGs:
Tracy Thompson Warden - Owner and Operator 
Brian F. Jewell, MD - Medical Director 
Jack P. Failla, MD - Medical Director