The Laryngoscope
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Comparative Study
Airway resistance and work of breathing in tracheostomy tubes.
Recommendations for sizing of tracheostomy tubes are generally based on anatomic considerations with the largest fitting tube most commonly placed. Once in the tracheostomy site, the tube assumes the new role of the upper airway. Consideration of the airway resistance of each tracheostomy tube and change in work of breathing are important in maintaining the respiratory system homeostasis. ⋯ Adult tubes 8 and 10 most closely simulated the upper airway resistance of adults and neonatal tube 0 appeared most appropriate for the newborn. Work of breathing was determined for each tracheostomy tube. Increasing tube diameter as well as decreasing tidal volume and respiratory rate decreased the amount of work required to maintain a given flow.