Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to improve respiratory function. Systems include an external electrical stimulator coupled to electrodes that stimulates diaphragm contraction and may optionally include a positive pressure mechanical ventilator. The system further includes an electrode suitable for temporary implantation. Electrical stimulation is provided to specific portions of the diaphragm, such as one hemidiaphragm preferentially over another. By preferentially contracting one hemidiaphragm, a specific portion of a lung may be expanded, such as a posterior portion. By the provision of the negative intrathoracic pressure from diaphragm contraction, greater expansion of specific portion of lung is achieved in relationship to air pressure within the lung, thereby improving compliance. Supplementation of stimulated diaphragm contraction with positive pressure driven air flow from a PPMV directs the air flow to specific portions of the lung.

Abstract: A monopolar neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) apparatus is configured for use with a cannula and a remote electrode. The apparatus includes a longitudinally rigid rod that is movable in the cannula throughout a range of operative positions in which inner and outer end portions of the rod extend longitudinally outward from the inner and outer ends of the cannula. The apparatus further includes a single electrode configured to be supported as a solitary electrode on the inner end portion of the rod for movement with the rod through the cannula. In this manner, the electrode can be moved into and out of contact with internal test sites to apply NMES at the internal test sites in an electrical circuit with the remote electrode upon movement of the rod back and forth in the cannula. Additionally, the rod is a rigid tube and the electrode is a suction-tip electrode configured to communicate pneumatically with the rigid tube.

Abstract: A method of delivering a tool to a peritoneal cavity including the following steps: inserting a guidewire percutaneously through an abdominal wall into a stomach; pulling the abdominal wall away from the stomach; and guiding a distal end of an endoscope with the guidewire through a wall of the stomach into the peritoneal cavity. Another aspect of the invention provides an abdominal wall grasping device having an abdominal wall attachment portion adapted to attach to an abdominal wall and a grasping element adapted to be grasped by a user to pull the abdominal wall away from a stomach.

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a cannula includes a rigid rod which is receivable and movable in the cannula throughout a range of operative positions in which inner and outer end portions of the rod extend longitudinally outward from the inner and outer ends of the cannula. The apparatus further includes a contact electrode which is configured to be supported on the inner end portion of the rigid rod for movement with the rigid rod through the cannula.