SV With TTPEE Measurement Predicts Upper Airway Patency in Prolonged Tracheostomy Patients

Speaking Valves With Transtracheal End-expiratory Pressure Measurement Predicts Upper Airway Patency in Prolonged Tracheostomy Patients: A Multicenter, Prospective Study

The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of predicting upper airway patency in patients with prolonged tracheostomy using a non-invasive method combining speaking valve (SV) and transtracheal end-expiratory pressure (TTPEE) through a multicenter study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Weaned from ventilator more than 48 hours
• No any organ failure
• No sepsis
• Stable heart rate and blood pressure
• Lung infection under control
• PCO2<60mmHg
• Patient and family sign informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious dysfunction of vital organs
• Inability to tolerate cuff deflation
• Laryngopharyngeal trauma
• Known severe upper airway obstruction before referrer to our department
• Endoscopy(bronchoscopy or laryngoscopy) has been performed and the condition of the upper airway has known