Tracheostomy & Laryngectomy

Question 1

Tracheostomy

Answer 1

• An opening created through the neck into the trachea
• Alternative access to airway
  Placement between 2nd & 3rd tracheal ring (midline)
• speech through speaking valve
• changes are temporary

Question 2

Cuffed Tube

Answer 2

Cuff at the end of the tube seals off upper airway; airway is protected from aspiration
- If tube is blocked, no oxygen can get to lungs

Question 3

Uncuffed Tube

Answer 3

• No seal in the trachea; air can flow through mouth & nose
• Airway is not protected from aspiration

Question 4

Fenestrated

Answer 4

small hole to allow air to pass through tube to vocal folds

Question 5

Unfenestrated

Answer 5

no small holes, requires speaking valve for air to be passed to vocal folds

Question 6

Laryngectomy

Answer 6

• surgical removal of larynx due to trauma/ cancer
• partial or total removal
• speech is never “normal” again
• changes are permanent and irreversible