Dr Matthew Kaufman and Dr Thomas Bauer Provide a Multidisciplinary Approach for Diaphragmatic Paralysis

Published:
December 26, 2023
Dr. Matthew Kaufman and Dr. Thomas Bauer
Dr. Matthew Kaufman and Dr. Thomas Bauer, M.D.

What You Need To Know

Matthew Kaufman, M.D., FACS, and Thomas Bauer, M.D., FACS, provide a multidisciplinary approach for diaphragmatic paralysis. They perform surgical procedures which allow simultaneous nerve transfers and pacemaker implantations that can result in re-innervation of the diaphragm and lead to successful ventilator weaning. These reconstructive surgeries demonstrate successful long term outcomes in 89% of the patients. Phrenic Nerve Surgery was pioneered in 2007 as a method to reverse diaphragm paralysis and restore breathing functionality. This surgery involves a combination of nerve decompression and nerve grafting to bypass the site of the injury. Following phrenic nerve surgery, the majority of patients experience a degree of recovery, allowing them to resume activities that require effort and exertion while improving sleep efficiency. Diaphragmatic Pacemaker Surgery is for treating patients with certain conditions, such as high spinal cord injury and ALS (Lou Gerhig’s disease), where the diaphragm no longer functions independently. Many of these patients are on a ventilator or are chronically dependent on oxygen therapy. A diaphragm pacemaker allows select patients to breathe independently without the need for long-term ventilator support. Through this procedure, our surgeons place electrodes around the nerves to the diaphragm, or directly into the muscle, which causes an inspiratory experience for the patient. Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive technique that requires a small incision with scopes that are used to: ■ Reconstruct phrenic nerves to restore breathing function ■ Suture the diaphragm into a lower position to allow air to easily flow through the lungs ■ Repair diaphragmatic hernias, which limit breathing and the motion of the diaphragm This technique has been performed by Dr. Bauer, and has become a beneficial procedure for patients who are ventilator dependent or who struggle to do daily tasks while breathing normally. To learn more or schedule a consultation for your patient, please contact Ellen McCue, NP, at 732-776-3893