Journal of pediatric surgery
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We report a series of four spinal cord-injured children with ventilator dependency who were implanted with radiofrequency phrenic nerve pacers. At injury, their ages ranged from 6 to 9 years. Implantation occurred from 15 to 47 months following injury. ⋯ There have been no complications related to pacer dysfunction in the postoperative course. Selective pacing schedules have been developed to minimize problems related with external mechanical ventilation. Radiofrequency phrenic nerve pacing is of value in the complete rehabilitative management of these severely disabled children.