Iron lungs are self-contained devices that help people with breathing difficulties. These machines work by creating negative pressure within a metal chamber that surrounds the patient's chest, drawing air into their lungs. Today, iron lungs are no longer in common use. The term has also fallen out of favor. Instead, clinicians and researchers use terms like "negative pressure ventilator" or "noninvasive volume ventilator" to describe similar devices. Other synonyms for iron lungs may include "breathing chamber" or "respiratory support apparatus." While the technology has advanced dramatically, the need for respiratory support remains, and new devices continue to be developed to help those in need.