Accidental Decannulation of Tracheostomy Tubes Case Series.
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Date
2016
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
West African College of Surgeons
Abstract
Tracheostomy tube (TT) is usually removed in a planned manner once the patient ceases to have the condition that
necessitated the procedure. Accidental decannulation or extubation refers to inadvertent removal of
tracheostomy tube out of the stoma. It could prove fatal in an otherwise stable patient. We review a variety of
unexpected and often-overlooked causes of accidental decannulation with suggestions on preventive measures.
We therefore present three cases of accidental decannulation of tracheostomy tubes in order to report our
experiences in the management of the condition.
Conclusion: Accidental decannulation occurs both in hospitalized as well as in patients on home care of their
tracheostomy tubes. Reduction in neck circumference due to weight loss predisposes to accidental decannulation,
which could be prevented by suturing the flanges to the skin.
Description
Keywords
Accidental decannulation, Tracheostomy complications, Post thyroidectomy, Neck trauma, Weight loss