Complete Restoration of Respiratory Muscle Function in Three Subjects With Spinal Cord Injury: Pilot Interventional Clinical Trial

Am J Phys Med Rehabil, 2019 · DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001018 · Published: January 1, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Pulmonology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study aimed to see if it's safe and effective to completely restore breathing muscle function in people with spinal cord injuries. The study used spinal cord stimulation to help patients cough and diaphragm pacing to help them breathe. The results showed that this combined approach can significantly improve breathing and coughing in these patients.

Study Duration

6 Months

Participants

Three spinal cord injured patients ventilated with a diaphragm pacing system

Evidence Level

Interventional clinical trial

Key Findings

1
Spinal cord stimulation significantly improved peak expiratory airflow and airway pressure generation compared to spontaneous efforts.
2
Subjects reported much greater ease in raising secretions after spinal cord stimulation.
3
Complete restoration of respiratory muscle function was achieved in the same individuals with SCI.

Research Summary

This study investigated the restoration of respiratory muscle function in tetraplegic patients using diaphragm pacing and spinal cord stimulation. The results suggest that spinal cord stimulation can be safely and effectively used with diaphragm pacing. The study highlights potential cost savings through restoration of effective cough in this population.

Practical Implications

Improved Secretion Management

Spinal cord stimulation can significantly improve secretion management, reducing the need for suctioning and other cumbersome methods.

Enhanced Mobility

Restoring cough function allows patients to feel more comfortable traveling alone and experience greater mobility.

Reduced Healthcare Costs

Combining diaphragm pacing with spinal cord stimulation for cough restoration may lead to additional cost savings.

Complete Restoration of Respiratory Muscle Function in Three Subjects With Spinal Cord Injury: Pilot Interventional Clinical Trial

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Secretion Management

Enhanced Mobility

Reduced Healthcare Costs

Study Limitations

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Complete Restoration of Respiratory Muscle Function in Three Subjects With Spinal Cord Injury: Pilot Interventional Clinical Trial

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Secretion Management

Enhanced Mobility

Reduced Healthcare Costs

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?