The Daily Amount of Tracheo-Bronchial Secretions in Man: A Method for Continuous Tracheal Aspiration in Laryngectomized and Tracheotomized Patients

Abstract

A new method for intermittent self-regulated aspirations of tracheobronchial secretions (TBS) through a modified tracheal cannula provided with a heat-and-moisture exchanger is described and tested on laryngectomized and tracheotomized patients. The normal source, elimination and daily amount of the total respiratory tract fluid (RTF) and of the pure tracheo-bronchial secretions in adults are briefly discussed on the basis of the present results. It is assumed that the daily output of TBS does not exceed 0.5 ml per kg body-weight per 24 hours during physiological conditions. The suction device may also be used for therapeutic aspirations.