John Haven Emerson (1906-1997): The Ultimate Pioneer of the "Iron Lung".

Abstract

John Haven "Jack" Emerson (1906-1997) was an American inventor who made significant contributions to the field of respiratory therapy. He is best known for his improvements to the iron lung, resulting in Emerson's iron lung, which became a vital treatment for polio patients during the epidemics of the 1950s, saving countless lives. Over his career, Emerson held 35 patents and developed numerous innovative devices. He also contributed to the design of flow valves for the U.S. Army, diving equipment, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy tanks. Emerson's forward-thinking approach led him to be among the first to recognize high-frequency ventilation as an effective technique. Despite not completing high school, his ingenuity earned him recognition from the American Thoracic Society, where he became the first non-physician to receive such an honor.