Tracheostomy tube change is a relatively common and simple procedure once a tract is formed between the skin and the trachea. Regular tracheostomy tube changes decrease the risk of postoperative pulmonary infection and granulation tissue formation. However, serious complications, such as loss of airway, subcutaneous emphysema, and mediastinitis, can occur if the tube exchange is performed inapp...

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the airway dynamics of the upper airway as depicted on cine MRI in children with tracheotomy tubes during two states of airflow through the upper airway. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sagittal fast gradient echo cine MR images of the supra-glottic airway were obtained with a 1.5T MRI scanner on seven children with tracheotomy tubes. Two sets of image...

Dysphagia is a constant complication of subtotal reconstructive laryngectomy, due to modifications in the anatomy and in sensitivity of the larynx and pharynx. The reduced sphincteric activity of the larynx can enhance aspiration with a higher risk of pneumonia. In our opinion, the presence of the tracheotomy tube in the first weeks after surgery interferes with proper mobility of the laryngo-t...

1. Tracheotomy.?Hindu female, out. 36. Has suffered from strumous laryngitis for two years, and had great difficulty of breathing for eight days. Tracheotomy was performed above the isthmus; immediate relief was obtained. The tube was worn for eight days, and the wound healed within a week after its removal. 2. Operations for strangulated hernia?i. Hindu male, cat. 30. Left oblique inguinal her...

A tracheotomy tube, as well as the stoma through which it is inserted into the patient's throat, may represent a potential risk of fungal infections for patients suffering from larynx cancer. The study was aimed at evaluating the influence of the hospital room environment on the fungal colonisation of tracheotomy tubes in the case of patients diagnosed with larynx cancer and operated on in the ...

SUMMARY With modern anesthesia, aspiration is an exceedingly rare complication, and we have learned that a prolonged fast can result in serious adverse effects in critically ill patients. We discuss the no-fast protocol implemented at Vancouver General Hospital in 2007 for intubated, tube-fed adult patients who underwent elective open tracheotomy.

Personal use only. For copyright permission information: Published online http://www.ajcconline.org © 2010 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses doi: 10.4037/ajcc2009575 2010;19:278-284 Am J Crit Care Linda Y. Y. Chan, Alice Y. M. Jones, Raymond C. K. Chung and K. N. Hung Decannulation of a Tracheotomy Tube in Neurosurgical Patients Peak Flow Rate During Induced Cough: A Predictor of Suc...