Study of Decannulation Problems Following Tracheostomy in Quadriplegics

Aim: Decannulation of tracheostomy in cases of traumatic quadriplegia is always a challenge due to respiratory muscle paralysis, chest infections, aspiration and need to care for sacral sores. Aim of this study was to identify and overcome the difficulties in decannulation of tracheostomy in cases of quadriplegia due to cervical spinal cord injury. Material and methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in a tertiary care Spinal Cord Injury Center of a Military Hospital. Ten cases of tracheostomized traumatic quadriplegics were evaluated over 3years. Decannulation was considered once there was normal gag reflex, effective cough, manageable aspiration, oxygen saturation above 90%, no serious pulmonary compromise and no need for bed sores surgery. The cases were followed up for further one year post-decannulation. Results: Eight cases could be decannulated successfully. Only two cases could not be decannulated due to feeble chest movement, ineffective Cough, lack of motivation and occasional aspiration. Conclusion: Cervical cord injury patients have difficult decannulation due to weak respiratory muscles, ineffective cough, aspiration, pulmonary pathology and bed sores. Respiratory muscle exercise, quantified peak cough pressure, assisted coughing, risk benefit approach in aspiration, healing of bed sores and team work are keys to successful decannulation