For patients - Cervical4Therapeutics

Diaphragm pacemaker explained simply

Information and support for those affected and their relatives

What is a diaphragm pacemaker?

A diaphragm pacemaker is a small medical device that uses gentle electrical impulses to stimulate the diaphragm muscle - the most important breathing muscle in the body. This supports natural inhalation and exhalation - often without the permanent use of ventilators.

Your advantages at a glance

More quality of life

Natural speech, eating and smelling

Functions that are often restricted with ventilation are improved

Fewer infections

Reduced risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections

More freedom of movement

Increases your mobility and independence

Long-term cost savings

Reduced need for expensive respiratory care

FAQs on the topic of diaphragm pacemakers

How do I find out if I am suitable for a diaphragm pacemaker?

Take your time to look at all the information on this website. If you have any questions or are unsure whether you can benefit from this therapy, arrange a consultation online or contact a specialist you trust. The centers we work with will also be happy to provide you with comprehensive clarification.

Is the stimulation painful?

The stimulation intensity of the signal is individually adapted to the patient's needs during the training phase. Although patients feel the contractions of the diaphragm, they do not feel any pain. If the patient still experiences discomfort, the stimulator is readjusted accordingly until the patient feels comfortable with it.

Is the implantation of the pacemaker associated with costs for me as a patient?

The procedure is part of the service catalogue of health insurance companies in Germany and is therefore free of charge for all patients with residence in Germany. If you live outside of Germany please contact us thus, we can check if this procedure is covered by health insurance in your country as well.

Is it a major intervention?

The electrodes are implanted via minimal invasive procedure (key hole surgery). The whole procedure is simple and safe and lasts usually less than one hour.

Can I travel with a diaphragm pacemaker?

Many of our patients travel regularly. Air travel is also no problem. To avoid any problems at the airport when passing through security, we can provide you with an implant ID card that informs the security staff that you are wearing such a system. For the airlines, this document serves as proof that your system will not cause any problems on board during the flight.

How many patients are implanted all over the world?

The system has been successfully implanted for over 20 years. There are roughly 3000 patients worldwide using our systems..

What about infections?

The overall complication rate is extremely low, including infections. The reported infections are superficial infections (redness) in the area where the cables exit the skin. These local infectionsare normally easy to treat using conventional treatment methods.

What happens if something breaks?

Each patient receives two stimulators and a spare patient cable so that you always have a spare system available. If one of the electrode cables breaks and the device displays a corresponding alarm, please contact us immediately. We will carry out a few simple tests with you over the phone and, if necessary, arrange an appointment for a repair. We usually repair a cable break at the patient's home and it only takes a few minutes.

Online shop for accessories

Easy and quick order process

You can order accessories at our online shop. We offer accessories that helps keeping your device functioning properly.

Do you have any questions about the diaphragm pacemaker?

Our patient page can help

If you or your relatives would like to find out more about the diaphragm pacemaker, you will find all the important information explained simply and clearly here.

It is important to us that patients and their relatives can understand the treatment options and have all the important information to hand. That is why we have deliberately formulated the content clearly and comprehensibly.

Our partner clinics

Here you will find our cooperation partners. All our partner clinics are trained and experienced in implanting our systems. We will be happy to put you in touch with one of our partner clinics - simply use our contact form.

BG Trauma Clinic Murnau

Center for spinal cord injury patients

Prof. Küntscher Strasse 8
82418 Murnau
Germany

Heidelberg University Hospital

Clinic for Paraplegiology

Building 9040, Schlierbacher Landstrasse 200a
69118 Heidelberg
Germany

Swiss Paraplegic Center Nottwil

Guido A. Zäch Strasse 1
6207 Nottwil
Switzerland

Motol University Hospital - Prague

Spinal Cord Unit

V Uvalu 84
15006 Prague
Czech Republic