Philadelphia Hospital Treated Rare Diaphragm Paralysis
A patient underwent robotic surgery in Philadelphia to address paralysis caused by a past COVID-19 infection.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Stroke
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In December 2025, a patient named John Burks received specialized treatment at Temple Health for right-side diaphragm paralysis. The condition developed following a previous COVID-19 infection, eventually leading to a successful surgical intervention.
Why it matters
Diaphragm paralysis can stem from viruses like COVID-19 or chest surgery, potentially impairing breathing and daily activity. Understanding these risks helps patients recognize persistent respiratory issues and seek specialized diagnostics.
This case report documents the clinical experience of a single patient treated for diaphragm paralysis following a viral infection. Temple Health utilizes diaphragm ultrasound to assess muscle thickness and motion to guide the diagnostic and surgical process.
The players
John Burks
An Annapolis, Maryland resident who developed diaphragm paralysis following a COVID-19 infection.
Temple Health
A Philadelphia-based health system that utilizes robotic surgery and pacemaker technology for diaphragm treatment.
The details
Surgeons at Temple Health perform robotic plication to address diaphragm paralysis by utilizing robotic assistance to tighten the diaphragm and remove slack. For patients requiring further intervention, the health system may use pacemakers to replace brainstem impulses to pace the diaphragm muscle. These interventions aim to restore proper muscle motion and function in the chest cavity.
Timeline
December 2025: John Burks underwent a robotic plication procedure at Temple Health.
Health Landscape
Thoracic medicine has increasingly adopted robotic platforms to manage complex nerve-related muscle dysfunction in the diaphragm. This approach marks a shift from historical, more invasive surgical standards toward precision-targeted muscle repair.
If you have experienced unexplained shortness of breath after a viral infection, discuss potential respiratory muscle concerns with your primary care physician. Diagnostic tools like ultrasound can help determine if diaphragm motion has been impacted by nerve damage.
The takeaway
Diaphragm paralysis can result from viral infections like COVID-19, leading to significant respiratory limitations. If you face persistent difficulty breathing, consult a pulmonologist or thoracic specialist to evaluate your diaphragm function.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Stroke care available across the Philadelphia region.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 6abc Action News.
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