Patent ID: 8244359
Filing Date: 2012-08-14
Classification: A61B,A61N

Abstract:
1. A medical device for use in patients comprising: a transvenous stimulation lead, said lead having at least one stimulation electrode placed in a vein adjacent to at least one phrenic nerve of the patient; an implanted medical device (IMD) implanted in the body of the patient, said IMD being electrically connected said stimulation electrode; a respiration sensor implanted in the patient, said respiration sensor being in communication with said IMD; and a control logic incorporated within said IMD, said control logic capable of reading said respiration sensor, analyzing said respiration signal and delivering stimulation pulses to maintain activation of at least a portion of a diaphragm to said stimulation electrode at a time proximate the transition from an inhalation phase to an exhalation phase of a respiration, retaining air in at least one lung and preventing exhalation of the retained air for a period of time, and then after the period of time has lapsed, allowing a delayed exhalation outflow of the retained air.