Wise Young
09-27-2001, 10:27 AM
http://feswww.fes.cwru.edu/projects/jtmva1.htm
Electrical Activation of the Diaphragm For Ventilatory Assist
Principal Investigator:
J. Thomas Mortimer, Ph.D.
Target population: Persons with spinal cord injury above the C5 level
Project Abstract:
The purpose of this work is to develop a diaphragm pacing system that will support the ventilatory needs of people with compromised respiratory function. The unique aspect of our approach is the use of intramuscular (IM) electrodes implanted in the diaphragm muscle through a laparoscopic procedure.
We have developed instruments to first locate the phrenic nerve motor points and second to safely and accurately implant IM electrodes at these sites. A properly placed IM electrode has been shown to evoke tidal volumes necessary to support full time ventilation without fatigue.
The methods and technology we have developed will make diaphragm pacing less risky to the individuals who need it and less costly to the health care delivery system. The combined effects are expected to enhance the quality of life and independence of individuals who are ventilator dependent and will make electrical activation of the phrenic nerves available to a broad range of patient populations.
Project Sponsor:
Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research and Development Service
For more information contact:
J. Thomas Mortimer, Ph.D.
Applied Neural Control Laboratory
3480 Bolton Bldg.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, Ohio 44106-4912
(216) 368-2960 (216) 368-4872 FAX
E-mail: jtm3@po.cwru.edu
Electrical Activation of the Diaphragm For Ventilatory Assist
Principal Investigator:
J. Thomas Mortimer, Ph.D.
Target population: Persons with spinal cord injury above the C5 level
Project Abstract:
The purpose of this work is to develop a diaphragm pacing system that will support the ventilatory needs of people with compromised respiratory function. The unique aspect of our approach is the use of intramuscular (IM) electrodes implanted in the diaphragm muscle through a laparoscopic procedure.
We have developed instruments to first locate the phrenic nerve motor points and second to safely and accurately implant IM electrodes at these sites. A properly placed IM electrode has been shown to evoke tidal volumes necessary to support full time ventilation without fatigue.
The methods and technology we have developed will make diaphragm pacing less risky to the individuals who need it and less costly to the health care delivery system. The combined effects are expected to enhance the quality of life and independence of individuals who are ventilator dependent and will make electrical activation of the phrenic nerves available to a broad range of patient populations.
Project Sponsor:
Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research and Development Service
For more information contact:
J. Thomas Mortimer, Ph.D.
Applied Neural Control Laboratory
3480 Bolton Bldg.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, Ohio 44106-4912
(216) 368-2960 (216) 368-4872 FAX
E-mail: jtm3@po.cwru.edu