A new technique for acute and chronic recording of crural diaphragm EMG in cats.

We have developed a percutaneous technique for placement of electromyogram electrodes in cat diaphragmatic crura. The technique is convenient and relatively atraumatic. Guided by external landmarks, small gauge hypodermic needles are used to advance electrodes through implant sites within or in contact with the crural portions of the diaphragm. Satisfactory EMG is reliably obtained from both acute and chronic preparations.