Abstract
Patients with head and neck cancers often require use of a tracheal cannula due to stenosis of the permanent tracheostoma following total laryngectomy. However. a cannula that is designed for a multi-purpose tracheotomy frequently presents a problem. when placed in a permanent tracheostoma.
To resolve this difficulty. we developed a straight cannula that fits most permanent tracheostomas. We achieved a straight design by removing the curvature of a cufled tracheostomy single cannula (size 12: Koken Co., Ltd.). To facilitate installation by the patient without assistance, silicone was used because it is softer than similar conventional products. By making the cannula diameter slightly larger, immobilization with a strap is lomger needed.
Our cannula was used in 14 patients following surgery for the laryngeal, hypopharyngel, esophageal carcinomas. The cannula fit well and reduced the respiratory discomfort in all patients.
