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Thoracoscopic electrode implantation for diaphragm pacing in dogs
Tsuyoshi Shoji1, Yoshitaka Oku, Shinya Ishikawa
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan.
Background:
Diaphragm pacing is an attractive method of ventilatory support; however, it requires electrode implantation to the phrenic nerve or diaphragm. The thoracic approach is favored for several reasons, and it usually accompanies invasive bilateral thoracotomy.
Objectives:
This study was conducted to develop a new electrode suitable for video-assisted thoracoscopic implantation, which is less invasive than the conventional thoracic approach.
Methods:
The feasibility of video-assisted thoracoscopic implantation was tested with newly designed electrodes using 5 mongrel dogs. Furthermore, diaphragm pacing was performed for 60 min to test whether or not the implanted electrodes were functional.
Results:
Video-assisted electrode implantation was successful in all 5 cases. No complications occurred during the implantation procedure. In acute-phase pacing trials, the electrodes stimulated the phrenic nerves for 60 min without any pacing failures. The mean value of PaCO(2) increased gradually from 32.2 +/- (SEM) 1.52 to 54.6 +/- 4.58 mm Hg, and the value of tidal volume decreased gradually from 242.9 +/- 31.3 to 147.5 +/- 24.5 ml in 60 min pacing.
Conclusions:
The thoracoscopic implantation of new electrodes was less invasive, and was a safe procedure for diaphragm pacing. Meticulous care should be taken to avoid muscle fatigue.