Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
Is tracheotomy decannulation possible in oxygen-dependent children?
N A Picerno1, J P Bent, J Hammond
1Divisions of Otolaryngology and Pediatric Pulmonology and the School of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, USA.
Insights
Decannulation is a safe and successful procedure for children with ongoing oxygen needs. Many patients experience reduced oxygen requirements after decannulation, improving their airway physiology.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric pulmonology
- Otolaryngology
- Respiratory care
Background:
- Persistent oxygen requirements in children often necessitate tracheotomy.
- Evaluating decannulation safety and efficacy in this population is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and safety of decannulation in pediatric patients with persistent oxygen dependency.
- To determine the impact of decannulation on oxygen requirements.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 12 oxygen-dependent children requiring tracheotomy.
- Exclusion of patients needing >35% FiO2.
- Endoscopic airway assessment and surgical interventions (laryngotracheoplasty, tracheal resection, granulation tissue removal) prior to decannulation.
Main Results:
- Successful decannulation achieved in 92% (11 of 12) of the evaluated children.
- Post-decannulation, 58% of patients showed a reduction in their oxygen requirements.
- Oxygen was managed via nasal cannula after decannulation.
Conclusions:
- Decannulation is a viable option for children with persistent oxygen dependency.
- Airway reconstruction can be an effective adjunct in reducing or eliminating oxygen demand.
- Successful decannulation can lead to improved respiratory outcomes.
Objective:
The goal was to determine whether decannulation can be safely achieved in children with persistent oxygen requirements.
Design:
The study was a prospective evaluation of 12 oxygen-dependent children at a tertiary care academic children's medical center.
Methods:
Twelve tracheotomy-dependent children with persistent oxygen requirements were evaluated for decannulation. Patients requiring more than 35% FiO(2) were not considered. Direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy were performed in all patients. Two required single-stage laryngotracheoplasty to correct subglottic stenosis, 1 required tracheal resection, and 7 required removal of suprastomal granulation tissue. Oxygen was administered after decannulation through a nasal cannula.
Results:
Decannulation was successful in 92% (11 of 12) of patients. At final follow-up, oxygen requirements decreased in 58% of patients after decannulation.
Conclusions:
Decannulation can be successful in children who remain oxygen dependent; conversion to a more physiologic airway may be an adjunct to reducing or eliminating their oxygen demand.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Tracheostomy Decannulation
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask and...

