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Stimulatory device and methods to electrically stimulate the phrenic nerve

  • US 20020188332A1
  • Filed: 05/29/2002
  • Published: 12/12/2002
  • Est. Priority Date: 06/11/1998
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method for increasing blood flow to the thorax of a patient, the method comprising:

  • periodically stimulating the phrenic nerve to cause the diaphragm to contract and thereby cause an increase in the magnitude and duration of negative intrathoracic pressure; and

    periodically occluding airflow to the lungs during contraction of the diaphragm with a valve that is positioned to control airflow into the patient'"'"'s airway to further increase the magnitude and duration of negative intrathoracic pressure, thereby forcing more blood into the thorax.

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