Diaphragm (Phrenic) Pacemaker - - Need Guidance

[SpinalTap]

MedHelp,

I need information to assist a relative who may need a diaphragmatic (phrenic) pacemaker. Any information on the following is appreciated:

1)  Which companies make the device?  I am aware of only Avery Biomedical Devices.

2)  Which institutions perform the implant procedure?

3)  Is this an experimental device or procedure?  I have heard that it is available in only two states.

4)  Are there better devices, more effective or lower cost treatments available overseas (outside USA)?

5)  What are the immediate and long-term risks?

6)  Special insurance issues?  eg if it's an experimental procedure, etc.

7)  Any other considerations or information that may be helpful.

Again, any assistance is appreciated !

[SpinalTap]

Thanks very much for the contacts and references.

[National Jewish]

Diaphragmatic pacing is used for people with diaphragmatic paralysis affecting both sides of the diaphragm.  Pacing is not indicated for diaphragmatic paralysis that affects just 1 side of the diaphragm.  Diaphragmatic plication is the surgical treatment of choice when only 1 side of the diaphragm is paralyzed.

John Elefteriades, MD is Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Yale University School of Medicine and the lead author of the article that is cited below.  Please contact him via the website http://yalesurgery.med.yale.edu/surgical_spec/cardio.html or his e-mail address john.***@****.

The citation below is for an article from the sections of cardiothoracic surgery at Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510, USA.  Long-term follow-up of pacing of the conditioned diaphragm in quadriplegia by John A. Elefteriades, Jacquelyn A. Quin, James F. Hogan, Wade G. Holcomb, George V. Letsou, William F. Chlosta, William W W L Glenn in Pacing & Clinical Electrophysiology, 2002 June, Volume 25, Number 6, pages 897-906.