Silicone Tracheal Cannula

Abstract

This presentation is to introduce a silicone tracheal cannula which has been designed for use in selected cases instead of a tracheotomy tube. The design of the cannula was developed in the laboratory and has now been used clinically over a period of four years in 26 cases. Special features of the cannula include a one-size diameter which is suitable for all adults. An inner flange is shaped so as to conform with the inner aspect of the anterior wall of the trachea and to prevent rotation and anterior displacement of the cannula. The inner flange is angulated to allow for proper direction of the long axis of the cannula. An outer flange fits into one of a number of grooves and prevents posterior displacement of the cannula. Thus far the silicone tracheal cannula has been used in cases of sleep apnea, bilateral vocal cord paralysis in the position of adduction, intermittent glottic insufficiency, laryngeal carcinoma, chronic lung disease, and short-term necessity for a tracheotomy. Special equipment has been designed for ease of the surgical procedure required for insertion of the cannula. A oneway valve has been designed which is easily applied to the cannula. A variation of the silicone tracheal cannula has been designed for long-term use.