Tracheostomy decannulation
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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

The Flexible Rhino-Laryngoscope for Awake Nasotracheal Intubation
Published on: August 2, 2024
1Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado, USA. drkchristopher@comcast.net
Abstract:
The respiratory therapist plays an integral role in tracheostomy tube decannulation. Removal of the tracheostomy tube should be considered only if the original upper-airway obstruction is resolved, if airway secretions are controlled, and if mechanical ventilation is no longer needed. Predictors of success include ability to produce a vigorous cough and the absence of aspiration. Tracheostomy decannulation requires caution, particularly following a prolonged period of tracheostomy use. The tracheostomy tube decannulation process is well suited for therapist-implemented protocols.
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