[Zasshi] [Journal]. Nihon Kyōbu Geka Gakkai
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Nihon Kyobu Geka Gakkai Zasshi · Apr 1989
[Phrenic nerve conduction disorder after open heart surgery--electrophysiological study].
In 32 consecutive adult patients undergoing heart surgery, the induced diaphragmatic muscle action potential was measured. Phrenic nerve conduction disorder was defined as disappearance of muscle action potential (Edi) and conduction time (CT). Phrenic nerve conduction disorder was observed in 10 patients (31%); 8 patients on the left side and 2 patients on both sides. ⋯ In the conduction disorder group, incidence of atelectasis, diaphragm elevation and pleural effusion as documented by chest roentgenographic findings were higher than those of non-conduction disorder group (p less than 0.01). Moreover, the lowest temperature of the myocardium during operation was significantly (p less than 0.05) lower for conduction disorder group as compared to non-conduction disorder group. We believed that it is necessary to develop a innovative method for preventing the phrenic nerve from cold injury.