High-Flow Tracheal Therapy on Tracheobronchial Secretions in Tracheostomized Patients

Impact of High-Flow Tracheal Therapy on the Rheological Properties of Tracheobronchial Secretions in Tracheostomized Patients: A Randomized Crossover Study.

This monocentric, randomized crossover study aims to assess the impact of high-flow tracheal therapy (HFT) on the rheological properties of tracheobronchopulmonary secretions in tracheostomized patients. The primary objective is to compare the viscoelastic characteristics of secretions collected with and without HFT. Secondary objectives include evaluating the effects of HFT on dyspnea, patient comfort, and secretion appearance. The study will take place at Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, with adult tracheostomized patients undergoing standard care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients (≥18 years old)
• Tracheostomized patients
• Patients requiring routine tracheal suctioning and already using HFT overnight

Exclusion Criteria:

• Insufficient secretions for analysis
• Cognitive impairment or confusion