High volume and low pressure cuffs: Inflatable cuffs tend to be high-volume and low pressure, in order to minimize pressure on the trachea. Complications of high cuff to trachea pressure include:
- Tracheomalacia: Flaccidity of the tracheal cartilage; “Floppy” trachea
- Tracheal stenosis: A narrowing of the trachea
- Tracheoesophageal fistula: An abnormal passageway connecting one or more places between the esophagus and the trachea
- Granuloma: Areas of inflammation; raised, red bumps
- Tracheitis: Infection and inflammation of the trachea
- Erosion of the innominate artery
- Hemorrhage, inflammation, ulceration and dilation. (1)
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