Laparoscopic vacuum delivery apparatus for a diaphragm pacer

摘要

A laparoscopic vacuum delivery device is used for placing an epimysial electrode at the phrenic nerve motor point. The vacuum delivery device is adapted to hold the epimysial electrode while the electrode is introduced through a port into the abdomen during a laparoscopic procedure. The electrode is forcibly held against the diaphragm muscle surface for test stimulation using a suction ported through the delivery device. Multiple test sites may be explored by controlling the suction to and the position of the delivery device. The electrode is secured at an optimal location on the diaphragm muscle using an endoscopic stapler.