The PIRAT clinical study is intended to assess the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of transvenous phrenic-nerve-stimulating diaphragm pacing on clinical outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients. By delivering electrical stimulation to the phrenic nerves, which in turn causes the diaphragm muscle to contract, the PROTECT DPTS is intended to protect the diaphragm from atrophy and preserve lung mechanics to reduce lung inflammation and injury associated with short-term mechanical ventilation. Sustained lung and diaphragm health during early mechanical ventilation is expected to reduce the risk of comorbidities, improve clinical outcomes such as weaning success, and thereby reduce the number of patients who require prolonged mechanical ventilation.
