Accidental Decannulation OF TRACHEOSTOMY TUBES - Case Series

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Patient Safety
• Respiratory Care

Background:

• Tracheostomy tubes (TT) are essential for airway management but can be inadvertently removed (accidental decannulation).
• Accidental decannulation poses a significant risk, potentially leading to fatal outcomes even in stable patients.
• This complication can occur in both hospitalized settings and among patients receiving home care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review unexpected and often-overlooked causes of accidental tracheostomy tube decannulation.
• To suggest effective preventive measures for accidental decannulation.
• To report clinical experiences in managing three cases of accidental tracheostomy tube decannulation.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on causes and prevention of accidental tracheostomy tube decannulation.
• Presentation and analysis of three clinical cases of accidental decannulation.
• Discussion of management strategies and preventive recommendations.

Main Results:

• Accidental decannulation is a risk for patients with tracheostomy tubes, regardless of care setting.
• Weight loss leading to reduced neck circumference is identified as a predisposing factor.
• Suturing the tracheostomy tube flange to the skin is proposed as a preventive measure.

Conclusions:

• Accidental decannulation is a preventable complication of tracheostomy.
• Proactive measures, such as securing the tube flange, are crucial for patient safety.
• Awareness of risk factors like weight loss can guide preventive strategies.