Expiratory airflow obstruction due to tracheostomy tube: A spirometric study in 50 patients

OBJECTIVES Tracheostomy is commonly used in intensive care units and in head and neck departments. Airway obstruction due to occluded cuffless tracheostomy tubes themselves remains unknown, although capping trials are commonly used before decannulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent to which airway obstruction can be caused by occluded cuffless tubes in patients who underwent head and neck surgery. DESIGN Prospective Research Outcome. SETTINGS University teaching hospital. PARTICIPANTS Fifty patients requiring transient tracheostomy after head and neck surgery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A flow-volume loop (FVL) through the mouth using a portable spirometer, with the occluded …