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Updated: May 31, 2026
09:43
Functional and Morphological Assessment of Diaphragm Innervation by Phrenic Motor Neurons
Published on: May 25, 2015
Impact on pulmonary function from phrenic nerve transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Mohammadreza Emamhadi1, Loay Shoubash2, Mohammad Haghani Dogahe3
11Department of Neurosurgery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
Journal of Neurosurgery
|May 29, 2026
Summary
Phrenic nerve transfer (PNT) can restore motor function but may lead to mild respiratory impairment in some patients. Long-term monitoring and careful patient selection are crucial after PNT procedures.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic surgery
- Pulmonary medicine
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Phrenic nerve transfer (PNT) is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring diaphragm function.
- Evaluating the respiratory impact of PNT is essential for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze the respiratory consequences of PNT.
- To assess clinical and paraclinical data from published studies on PNT outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting respiratory outcomes post-PNT.
- Included cases with documented postoperative follow-up and perioperative respiratory data.
- Extracted data on demographics, diaphragm imaging, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs).
Main Results:
- Among 617 patients, 4.9% reported respiratory symptoms; 67.4% showed unilateral diaphragm paralysis.
- Meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) postoperatively.
- Mild but persistent respiratory symptoms were reported by 2.4% of patients.
Conclusions:
- PNT is effective for motor restoration but can cause mild postoperative respiratory impairment in a subset of patients.
- Highlights the necessity for long-term monitoring and judicious patient selection for PNT.
- Particular caution is advised for patients with pre-existing reduced pulmonary reserve.
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