[Viscosity studies of tracheobronchial secretions post tracheostomy (author's transl)]

In 14 patients post tracheostomy viscosity of the tracheobronchial secretion was studied. No daytime fluctuation of the viscosity could be detected. There was a clear correlation between viscosity and duration since tracheostomy. Infection had less impact on viscosity than the appearance of mucous structures. antibiotics decreased, ionizing radiation of the patient increased viscosity. Humidification of the inspired air by means of an "artificial nose" increase volume and viscosity of the secretions.