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A Microfluidic Model of Biomimetically Breathing Pulmonary Acinar Airways
Published on: May 9, 2016
Electrically produced artificial ventilation
L A Geddes1, W D Voorhees, R Lagler
1Hillenbrand Biomedical Engineering Center, Purdue University, W. Lafayette, IN 47907.
Medical Instrumentation
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Electroventilation uses short electrical pulses to induce breathing. This technique, applied via body-surface electrodes, can increase inspired volumes safely in humans and animals.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- The induction of inspiration via electrical stimulation of body-surface electrodes is a long-established technique.
- Electroventilation is a term used to describe this method of artificially inducing breathing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the technique of electroventilation for inducing inspiration.
- To detail electrode placements and stimulus parameters for effective and safe electroventilation.
Main Methods:
- Stimuli delivered via body-surface electrodes placed at the neck, chest, or paraxiphoid region.
- Utilized short-duration pulses (less than 10 microseconds) in trains of 0.5-1 second.
- Tested in humans, baboons, and dogs.
Main Results:
- Inspiration was successfully induced with electrode placements stimulating phrenic and long thoracic nerves.
- Achieved inspired volumes exceeding spontaneous tidal volumes.
- Short-duration pulses minimized cardiac arrhythmias and skin sensation.
Conclusions:
- Electroventilation is an effective method for inducing inspiration.
- Specific electrode placements and short-duration pulses are crucial for safety and efficacy.
- The technique shows potential for respiratory support in various species.
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