A Portable Trachea Spray for Lower Airway Humidification in Patients After Tracheostomy

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the clinical applicability and efficiency of a vaporizing humidifier and a trachea spray in patients with tracheal stoma. Tracheal humidity and temperature were measured before and after use of a humidifier and new trachea spray in spontaneously breathing tracheostomized patients. After use of both a vaporizing humidifier and trachea spray, the tracheal climate increases significantly. After application of the trachea spray, the temperature gradient between ambient and tracheal air increases significantly. The water gradient after use of a vaporizing humidifier and a trachea spray does not differ significantly. As a result, the use of a vaporizing humidifier is not associated with a better tracheal climate than the application of a trachea spray. Because of its proven moisturizing effect and portability, a trachea spray offers additional options in tracheostomy and laryngectomy care.