A simple method for re-dilatation of an acute tracheostoma stenosis

Tracheostomy or laryngectomy stomas may sometimes re-stenose, resulting in respiratory distress for the patient unless the stoma is rapidly re-dilated and an adequate airway re-established. This article describes a simple and effective method for the acute re-dilatation of a tracheostoma stenosis, using an aural speculum, prior to the insertion of a patent airway tube. This technique has been successfully used in our department since 1995 and, in our experience, causes significantly less distress to our patients when compared with other means employed previously.