Evaluation of a deep brain stimulation electrode for laryngeal pacing.

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the suitability of a deep brain stimulation electrode for laryngeal pacing. Of interest was whether the smaller and more closely spaced channels could provide sufficient channel redundancy, controlled current distribution, and discrete activation of the posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA) muscle.

Methods: A study was conducted in dogs under differing states of PCA muscle innervation representing complete denervation to complete synkinetic reinnervation.

Reanimation of the paralyzed human larynx with an implantable electrical stimulation device.

Objectives/hypothesis: Electrical stimulation of the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle, when paced with inspiration, offers a physiological approach to restore ventilation in bilateral laryngeal paralysis without any of the disadvantages associated with conventional treatment.

Study Design: A prospective study of six patients.

Methods: The patients were successfully implanted with an Itrel II stimulator (Medtronic, Inc).