Phrenic nerve stimulator thoughts?
Cardiologist wants me to look at a rememde phrenic nerve stimulator implant to give me relief from my CA. I have been on an ASV for four years with reasonable success. The doctor installing the implant said this would cure my CA and wouldn't be a puff of air. He is working with my sleep doctor to get her opinion. My question is? If all three drs. say yes to the procedure what should I do it? Your thoughts and experiences would be appreciated!!!
RE: Phrenic nerve stimulator thoughts?
I don't have enough info about your centrals to even venture a guess at this. What is the cause of your centrals?
What is the nature of the stimulator they are going to implant, what are it's algorithms? Precisely and specifically what events actually drive the stimulator?
I'm not against the surgery, just in formed on both the implant and your centrals.
RE: Phrenic nerve stimulator thoughts?
This is a relatively new technology approved in 2017 for treatment of CSA. The clinical trials were relatively small and I have no awareness of another member of the forum getting the implant. I hope if you choose to do it, you will continue to participate here and document your experience. From this article
https://pulmccm.org/randomized-controlle...eep-apnea/
"FDA approved remedē System after a small clinical trial in 141 patients, who were implanted with either the working system or an inactivated device. At six months of followup, about half the patients with the Respicardia system had a ≥50% decrease in their apnea-hypopnea index (number of impaired breathing events per hour). Only one in 9 patients with a deactivated system had a similar improvement in overnight breathing.
Generally speaking, the FDA has a much less rigorous review process to approve devices, compared to drugs. Manufacturers must prove the device is safe, probably effective, and roughly comparable to existing devices."
RE: Phrenic nerve stimulator thoughts?
Remember, even if all three (or more!) doctors say 'yes', you can still say 'NO" if you feel unconvinced or uncomfortable for any reason. You still have your ASV, after all.
Apnea Board Monitors are members who help oversee the smooth functioning of the Board. They are also members of the Advisory Committee which helps shape Apnea Board's rules & policies. Membership in the Advisory Members group does not imply medical expertise or qualification for advising Sleep Apnea patients concerning their treatment.
