Tracheal size following tracheostomy with cuffed tracheostomy tubes: an experimental study. Issue 3 (June 1975)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Leverment, J N; Pearson, F G; Rae, S
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 30:Issue 3(1975)
• Page Start: 271
• Page End: 277
• Publication Date: 1975-06
• Subjects: Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thx.30.3.271
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : In view of the severe damage caused by unyielding, low residual volume cuffs, various modifications to the cuff of an intratracheal tube have been introduced. The merits of two low-pressure cuffs were assessed in an experimental study in dogs; both cuffs produced little visible damage to the tracheal wall in dogs intubated continuously over a two-week period. A modified technique of producing tantalum tracheobronchograms without distrubing the mucous blanket or traumatizing the tracheal wall is described. These tantalum radiological studies demonstrated a progressive temporary increase in size of the trachea at cuff level over the period of intubation with these cuffs. The implications of such a progressive weakness occurring in the tracheal muscle are discussed.