Practice News

Study on New Surgical Treatment to Reverse Ventilator Dependency in SCI

For individuals with ventilator dependency due to high spinal cord injuries there is a new surgical treatment that could reduce or eliminate the need for the ventilator. The treatment is being offered as part of a study at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey, under the guidance of Dr. Matthew R. Kaufman, MD, FACS.

Eligibility:

Eligible participants include adults and children dependent upon ventilators for respiratory support as a result of spinal cord injury, brainstem injury or disease, central alveolar hypoventilation, central sleep apnea (Ondine’s curse), and certain neuromuscular diseases

Outline of Study:

Although diaphragm pacing is an option for some people with ventilator dependency there are many who may no be candidates based upon the level and degree of injury. The goal of the current study is to improve the methods by which SCI patients can be rehabilitated to spontaneous or paced breathing. The procedure involves a surgical procedure performed in the neck, during which a nerve transfer is performed. Depending on the individual, this will be either with or without a diaphragm pacemaker.

Potential Benefits:

1. Superior respiratory function to mechanical ventilators
2. Lower infection rate
3. Possibility of tracheostomy removal
4. Improved breathing and speech
5. Ease of eating and drinking
6. Improved venous return
7. Increased patient mobility
8. Cost effective when compared to ventilator dependency
9. Unobtrusive use due to the small size of components

Patient Requirements:

1. Functional lungs and diaphragm muscle
2. Absence of infection
3. A clear and adequate upper airway
4. Adequate physical caregiver quality and availability, including, nursing, family support, and medical care

Please feel free to contact us by phone or e-mail us via our website in order to receive more information or to speak with a member of our team.

1-866-263-9123
www.advancedreconstruction.com

Matthew R. Kaufman, MD, FACS
Clinical Assistant Professor – Drexel College of Medicine
Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Saint Peter’s University Hospital
New Brunswick, NJ 08901

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction
535 Sycamore Avenue
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702