An Implantable Self-Driven Diaphragm Pacing System Based on a Microvibration Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Phrenic Nerve Stimulation

Spinal cord injury poses considerable challenges, particularly in diaphragm paralysis. To address limitations in existing diaphragm pacing technologies, we report an implantable, self-driven diaphragm pacing system based on a microvibration triboelectric nanogenerator (MV-TENG). Leveraging the efficient MV-TENG, the system harvests micromechanical energy and converts this energy into pulses for phrenic nerve stimulation. In vitro tests confirm a stable MV-TENG output, while subcutaneous implantation of the device in rats results in a constant amplitude over 4 weeks with remarkable energy-harvesting efficacy. The system effectively induces diaphragmatic motor-evoked potentials, triggering contractions of the diaphragm. This proof-of-concept system has potential clinical applications in implantable phrenic nerve stimulation, presenting a novel strategy for advancing next-generation diaphragm pacing devices.