Context: Since the first sterling tracheostomy cannula was developed, in the late 1800's, and some modernization has occurred, there have been several reports on flaws surrounding their care. Objetive: Provide a comprehensive review about tracheostomy cannulas. Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed and Medline databases was conducted on closed drainage system using the following keyword combination: tracheostomy AND cannula. Results: From eight hundred eight-three articles retrieved after our preliminary search, 17 articles were chosen for final analysis. Representative schemes were drawn to better understanding of the three distinguished materials types and ten different components (faceplate, cannula, radiopaque line in the cannula, inner cannula, universal hub 15mm, pressure line, pilot balloon, cuff, subglottic aspiration system, obturator), as well as their concerns. Conclusions: Knowing and understanding tracheostomy cannulas. particularities may imply in a better approach to the patients, and in minimizing institutional costs.