The prevention of irreversible lung changes following reversible phrenic nerve paralysis

Phrenic nerve paralysis frequently follows operations on the neck such as resection of a cervical or first rib. It all too often passes unrecognised or is incorrectly treated, leading to permanent lung damage which may be severe enough as to result in a functional pneumonectomy. This is particularly unfortunate since the phrenic nerve paralysis is usually temporary. Three case histories are described of reversible paralysis of the phrenic nerve in which, due to prompt diagnosis, the ensuing lung changes were either prevented or immediatley treated. Intermittent assisted respiration with a Monaghan respirator was used to provide nebulised inhalations of Mesna several times a day. The method is applicable via a tracheostomy, an endotracheal tube or a simple mouthpiece. The latter is illustrated. The therapy is not hindered by immobilisation of the head and neck and the level of consciousness of the patients is of no importance. Many chest X-rays demonstrate the rapid clearing of the lungs achieved. All three patients were discharged with perfectly normal lungs.