Surgery
The surgery is performed by placing an electrode around the phrenic nerve, either in the neck (ie, cervically), or in the chest (ie, thoracically). This electrode is connected to a radiofrequency receiver which is implanted just under the skin. An external transmitter sends radio signals to the device by an antenna which is worn over the receiver.
For the cervical surgical technique, the phrenic nerve is approached via a small (~5 cm) incision slightly above, and midline to, the clavic. The phrenic nerve is then isolated under the scalenus anticus muscle.
For the thoracic surgical technique, a small (~5 cm) incisions over the 2nd or 3rd intercostal space. The electrodes are placed around the phrenic nerves alongside the pericardium. Use of a thorascope allows for this technique to be performed in a minimally-invasive manner.
Patients are usually hospitalized for 1-3 days post-operatively, although some implantations can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Read more about this topic: Diaphragm Pacing
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“Ever since surgery began, man’s destiny has been to suffer, in order that he might be cured. And no one can change that, gentlemen.”
—Jean Scott Rogers. Robert Day. Mr. Blount (Frank Pettingell)