This model has proved to be effective for studying the performance of the diaphragm under different electrical stimulations using different set of electrodes.
Every year, a large number of individuals become dependent on mechanical
ventilation because of a loss of diaphragm function. The most common causes are
cervical spinal trauma and neuromuscular diseases. We have developed an
experimental model to evaluate the performance of electrical stimulation of the
diaphragm in rabbits using single-channel electrodes implanted directly into the
muscle. Various current intensities (10, 16, 20, and 26 mA) produced tidal
volumes above the baseline value, showing that this model is effective for the
study of diaphragm performance at different levels of electrical stimulation
PURPOSE:To describe a novel approach for implanting intramuscular electrodes in the diaphragm through videolaparoscopy.
METHODS:We used twelve pigs for this videolaparoscopic technique, which permits at the same time to explore the diaphragm, to locate its motor points and to fix the electrodes in the diaphragm bilaterally. In this technique we used three trocars: one portal for a 10-mm 0° viewing angle laparoscope, one portal for the manipulation of structures and another for electrode implantation.
RESULTS:All animals survived the procedure without pneumothorax/capnothorax or other complication. Implanted electrodes provided an appropriate interface between the muscle and the electrical current generator, and electroventilation was satisfactorily generated in all animals.
CONCLUSION:This videolaparoscopic technique with three trocars enables the exploration and identification of motor points and an efficient fixation of one or two electrodes in each hemidiaphragm.
The designed electrodes provided an excellent performance in connection between the electrical stimulator and the muscle tissue. The proposal for using an unpolarized current proved to be effective in stimulating both hemidiaphragms simultaneously with only a single channel of the electrical stimulator.
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