High Flow vs Conventional Oxygen in Head and Neck Surgery

Prevention of Pulmonary Complications Using High Flow With Tracheostomy Interface vs Conventional Oxygen Therapy in Patients After Major Head and Neck Surgery: Randomized Clinical Trial

Patients undergoing major head and neck surgery are at risk for postoperative pulmonary complications. The goal of this randomized clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of high flow heated humidified oxygen at preventing postoperative pulmonary complications after major head and neck surgery, when compared to conventional oxygen therapy (aerosol cool mist).

Participants enrolled in this study are randomly assigned to receive either conventional oxygen therapy (aerosol cool mist) or heated humidified high flow oxygen via the trach after head and neck surgery. The study team then collects information regarding clinical outcomes to explore if there are differences between the two groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing major head and neck surgery that includes any neck dissection
• Major head and neck surgery is defined as having a mean length of stay of three or more days, based on the diagnosis [14]
• Surgery requires an elective tracheostomy for airway protection or laryngectomy tube in the case of total laryngectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

• <18 years of age