Electronic pacing of incapacitated head and neck structures.

Abstract

Paralysis in the head and neck can affect any motor or mixed cranial nerves and the cervical roots. Most conspicuous deficits, however, involve the larynx and the face. The capacity for denervated striated muscle to undergo reinnervation, and the presence of remaining sources of information, have allowed coordinated rehabilitation of incapacitated cervical neuromuscular systems. The object of further related research should focus on the long-term efficacy of the reinnervated muscle machinery and the potential complexities of electronic integration.