Related Experiment Videos
Analysis of tracheostoma morphology.
Maartje Leemans1, Maarten J A van Alphen2, Michiel W M van den Brekel2
1a Department of Biomedical Engineering , University of Twente , Enschede , T he Netherlands.
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|April 11, 2017
Summary
Tracheostoma anatomy varies significantly between individuals, making a one-size-fits-all approach to automatic speaking valve fixation ineffective. Customization or novel solutions are needed for airtight seals in laryngectomized patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Engineering
- Anatomy
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Current automatic speaking valves (ASVs) face challenges with intratracheal fixation due to poor conformity with tracheostoma anatomy.
- Quantitative data on tracheostoma morphology are needed to improve airtight fixation solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide quantitative data on tracheostoma morphology in laryngectomized patients.
- To analyze the feasibility of a generic intratracheal fixation device for ASVs.
Main Methods:
- Computerized tomography (CT) scans of 20 laryngectomized patients were analyzed.
- Measurements included transverse and sagittal diameters, transition angles, and stoma depth.
Main Results:
- Significant variations in tracheostoma dimensions (mean transverse diameter 19.2 mm, sagittal 17.6 mm) and angles were observed.
- Mean stoma depth was 14.0 mm, with a mean distance of 13.5 mm between the TE valve and peristomal lip.
Conclusions:
- No average tracheostoma morphology exists that is suitable for a generic intratracheal fixation device.
- Airtight fixation requires a wide range of sizes, customization, or innovative new approaches for ASVs.