Consequence of Open Versus Closed Tracheostomy Immediately After Decannulation

Consequence of Open Versus Closed Tracheostomy Immediately After Decannulation

Tracheostomy is performed for prolonged mechanical ventilation. Ineffective bandaging following decannulation leaves the tracheostomy wound unsealed, reducing pulmonary function, coughing ability, and voice quality, ultimately leading to decannulation failure. Recently, a new concept enabling intratracheal sealing of the tracheotomy was introduced, potentially solving the issues of air leakage and tracheal wound infection. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of intratracheal tracheostomy sealing in relation to an immediate normalization of physiological airway flow and an improved voice quality.

See protocol document.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Tracheostomy for minimum 7 days
• Age > 18 years
• Capped uncuffed tube size 7 or 8 for at least 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive dysfunction (patients who are not able to cooperate with investigation)