Improved Material for Radcliffe Tracheostomy Tube

Laryngotracheal obstruction complicating tracheostomy or endotracheal intubation with assisted respiration. A critical review.

“…Chemical irritation Damage by the tube, at the level of the stoma, cuff or tip, may be increased by chemical irritation, so that tracheostomy tubes, and their cuffs, should be made of non-irritating material, despite the fact that similar damage may be caused by tubes made of any material (Grillo, 1969a) in consequence of pressure, movement, and infection. Both rubber and silver tubes produce chemical irritation (Salt, Parkhouse, and Simpson, 1960), while silver tubes have the added danger of rigidity and other side effects (Jacobs and Affeldt, 1956). Red rubber is an irritant material (Johnston et al, 1967;Hunter, 1967;Gregory, 1970) and it should be avoided.…”

Fracture of tracheostomy tubes

“…Tracheostomy tubes, in fact, act as foreign bodies whilst in use in patients. The adverse effects they produce are related to the material used in their manufacture and to the actual manufacturing process (Bass^e and B0e, 1960;Salt et aL % 1960;Gregory, 1970;Gibson, 1967). In chronic respiratory problems, when the need for long-term use of traeheostomy tubes may arise, there is the additional problem of the longevity of these tubes.…”

Prolonged (Therapeutic) Endotracheal Intubation

“…(a) A rough surface leads to an abrasive effect on the mucous membrane (Salt, Parkhouse and Simpson, 1960).…”

“…Even the newer plastics are not free from risks as they contain catalysts, curing agents, heat stabilizers, antioxidants, plasticizers, fillers, etc., which may cause irritation (Little and Parkhouse, 1962). The cement used to fix the cuff to the tube may also produce tissue irritation (Salt, Parkhouse and Simpson, 1960).…”