Novel Method for Sealing Tracheostomies Immediately after Decannulation—An Acute Clinical Feasibility Study

Abstract

Tracheostomy decannulation leaves an iatrogenic passage in the upper airways. Inadequate sealing leads to pulmonary dysfunction and reduced voice quality. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and impact of intratracheal tracheostomy sealing on laryngeal airflow and voice quality immediately after decannulation (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06138093). Fifteen adult, tracheostomized, intensive care unit patients were included from our hospital. A temporary, silicone-based sealing disc was inserted in the tracheostomy wound immediately after decannulation. Spirometry with measurement of forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were performed as measures of airway flow. Voice recordings were assessed using an equal appearing interval scale from 1 to 5. Median FVC, FEV1, PEF, and voice quality score with interquartile range (IQR) was 883 (510–1910) vs. 1260 (1005–1723) mL (p p p = 0.720), and 2 (1–2.5) vs. 4 (3–5) points (p 1, and voice quality.

Keywords

• respiratory insufficiency
• tracheostomy
• clinical study
• respiratory function tests
• mechanical ventilators
• rehabilitation