All About Tracheostomy Tubes

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Introduction     |    Tracheostomy tube     |    Types of tracheostomy tubes

Tracheostomy is the incision made during a tracheotomy surgery wherein an incision is made in the anterior of the neck to make a new passage for the air to enter the trachea. This surgery takes place when the person is incapable of breathing through the nose or the mouth or the air through the nose or the mouth does not reach the tracheal region in the neck. The tracheostomy serves as an independent airway for the person.

What is a Tracheostomy tube?

The tube is an object that is placed inside the stoma and is the medium through which the air enters the trachea. There are four major parts of the tube, the outer cannula, the inner cannula, and the obturator. The obturator is used to place the outer cannula perfectly in position and then is removed carefully. The outer cannula is not removed but the inner one might be removed for cleaning purposes.

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What are the different types of tracheostomy tubes?

Cuffed tubes – This type of tubes is used for people who have swallowing difficulties or to patients who are given mechanical ventilation. The cuff in the tube blocks any passage of air around the tube, thus ensuring a well oxygenated supply to the patient. A good example is the Shiley Pediatric Tracheostomy Tube with TaperGuard Cuff that has a unique pediatric cuff design and offers a comfort recess on the bottom of the connector to help reduce inferior stoma irritation. It has a transparent soft flange that supports patient comfort and visualization of the skin below.

Shiley Pediatric Tracheostomy Tube with TaperGuard Cuff
Shiley Pediatric Tracheostomy Tube with TaperGuard Cuff

Uncuffed tubes – These tubes are used for people who have no danger of aspiration. Due to the absence of the cuff, air can go up to the larynx and upper trachea thus enabling speech. This tube requires higher level of care as it has to be placed accurately to prevent sores in the stoma region. A good example is the Shiley Pediatric Cuffless Tracheostomy Tube which helps provide pediatric patients with the right fit and maintain airway patency, helping ensure patient safety and comfort. It is a trusted solution from a proven partner.

Shiley Pediatric Cuffless Tracheostomy Tube

Shiley Pediatric Cuffless Tracheostomy Tube

Fenestrated – The only difference fenestrated tube has in comparison with the others is that it has more than one hole in the outer cannula. It allows air to pass through the vocal cords up to the mouth. This tube enables normal breathing through the mouth, speech, and also expels mucus through the mouth. A good example is the Shiley Reusable Inner Cannula Cuffless Fenestrated Tracheostomy Tubes (CFN) that are designed for pulmonary hygiene and when used in conjunction with the Decannulation Plug (DCP), directs breathing through the upper airway. The fenestrated inner cannula with integral 15mm twist-lock connector permits connection of ancillary equipment and is translucent for easy inspection. The high-volume, low-pressure cuff provides a gentle and effective seal, reducing the risk of tracheal damage.

Shiley Reusable Inner Cannula Cuffless Fenestrated Tracheostomy Tubes

Shiley Reusable Inner Cannula Cuffless Fenestrated Tracheostomy Tubes

 

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