Adrienne Cunningham, RRT, MBA

Abstract
Objective: To review the success of the diaphragmatic pacer placement in ventilator- dependent tetraplegic patients. Design: Cross-sectional cohort study Methods: This study is based on a subset of tetraplegic patients that were successfully implanted with the diaphragmatic pacer (DP). Participants (n=8) reported on DP utilization times while surpassing the use of the mechanical ventilator. Pacing times were recorded. Results: A total of 28 patients were tested for possible… Show more

Abstract
Objective: To review the success of the diaphragmatic pacer placement in ventilator- dependent tetraplegic patients. Design: Cross-sectional cohort study Methods: This study is based on a subset of tetraplegic patients that were successfully implanted with the diaphragmatic pacer (DP). Participants (n=8) reported on DP utilization times while surpassing the use of the mechanical ventilator. Pacing times were recorded. Results: A total of 28 patients were tested for possible implantation. Eleven patients failed and were not implanted. Of the 16 that had successful DP place- ment, 11 were successfully contacted and interviewed. Age of patients ranged from 16 years to 66 years. All patients could sustain the need for mechanical ventila- tion for up to 12 hours per day. One participant has been able to surpass mechanical ventilation without the diaphragmatic pacer. Seven of 8 participants return to mechanical ventilation at night due to anxiety and light respiratory distress. All participants reported having good family support and continued satisfaction for hav- ing the DP. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the DP is a modality that has high patient satisfaction. Further research may serve as a potential replacement for prolonged mechanical ventilation. Show less