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  • Title: Montgomery T-tube for management of tracheomalacia: Impact on voice-related quality of life.
    Author: Fiorelli A, Natale G, Freda C, Cascone R, Carlucci A, Costanzo S, Ferrara V, Santini M.
    Journal: Clin Respir J; 2020 Jan; 14(1):40-46. PubMed ID: 31622032.
    Abstract:
    INTRODUCTION: Tracheostomy is a common procedure for management of tracheomalacia. However, the limitation to speak related to tracheostomy cannula could affect the quality of life. OBJECTIVES: we reported a new minimally invasive procedure to replace tracheostomy cannula with Montgomery T-tube to improve the ability of speaking. METHODS: This is a single center study including all consecutive patients undergoing the replacement of standard tracheostomy cannula with T-tube for management of tracheomalacia. The end-points were to evaluate (a) the changes in Voice-related quality of Life (V-RQOL) before and after T-tube placement; and (b) the complications related to T-tube. RESULTS: Eleven patients were included in the study. T-tube was placed using flexible bronchoscopy and laryngeal mask airway. A suture was inserted through the proximal end of T-tube. Once the stent was introduced with a clamp into the trachea, a traction was applied on the suture to facilitate the alignment of the upper end of the stent. The comparison of V-RQOL values before and after T-tube insertion showed a significant improvement in social/emotional (39.2 ± 6.1 vs 66.8 ± 1.9; P = .0001); physical functioning (21 ± 5.7 vs 56.4 ± 5.3; P = 0.0001) and total V-RQOL scores (33.9 + 5.4 vs 61.3 + 6.1; P = 0.0001). No complications were seen during the insertion of the stent. In two patients, T-tube was obstructed by mucus that resolved with aspiration using flexible bronchoscopy (mean follow-up: 18 ± 10 months). CONCLUSIONS: Our technique is simple and safe, not needing specific skills and/or cumbersome devices. The replacement of tracheostomy cannula with T-tube seems to improve the quality of voice without adding major complications.
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