Phrenic nerve pacing for ventilator-dependent high cervical spinal cord injury
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Description
A high cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) is an injury in the upper neck between the first and fourth cervical vertebrae (C1 to C4). The phrenic nerve controls the diaphragm, which is the main muscle used for breathing. High cervical SCI can affect the phrenic nerve and some people cannot breathe on their own and need a mechanical ventilator to help them breathe.
In this procedure, an electrode is implanted around the phrenic nerve in the lower neck or chest. The electrode is connected to a receiver that is usually placed in the chest wall. An external transmitter then sends radiofrequency signals to the receiver, causing the electrode to stimulate (pacing) the phrenic nerve. The pacing makes the diaphragm contract. The aim is to help people breathe normally and to have some time without a ventilator, potentially improving their quality of life.
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