| Tracheostomy tube cuff: Some tracheostomy tubes have a cuff that is designed to create a seal around the trachea. There is normally a tube extending from the body of tracheostomy tube and connects with a pilot balloon and a spring loaded valve. Air injected into the spring-loaded valve to inflate the cuff results in closure of the valve after cuff inflation. In most cases, pushing a syringe and a quarter-turn twist will activate the spring allowing air to be injected into the proximal balloon.
The tracheostomy tube cuff seals the trachea when the outer surface is in contact with the tracheal wall. A good seal eliminates air leaks in patients receiving mechanical ventilation and it will reduce aspiration risk. Cuffs may vary in shape and size. Foam cuffs are sometimes used if the trachea has dilated unintentionally over time. In the event the distal cuff, the one isolating the trachea, is punctured and / or leaking the EMS provider will notice the deflation of the proximal cuff. The use of End Tidal CO2 (capnography) monitoring is the best way to ensure the patency of the cuff and ensure a proper fit. | | | | |
