Tracheal decannulation in pediatrics: When and how?

Abstract

Decannulation is the process of removing the tracheotomy cannula permanently, once the original pathology that led to the tracheotomy has been resolved or significantly improved. The prediction of decannulation success is difficult due to the influence of several factors. There is no universally accepted decannulation protocol. There are several protocols and the choice depends, largely, on each institution and the individual situation of each patient. However, in order to achieve successful decannulation, several essential criteria must be taken into account, which must be fulfilled regardless of the chosen protocol. We indicate the characteristics that the patient must meet for decannulation, and we present recommendations on the necessary steps to achieve the removal of the tracheotomy cannula in a child safely and minimizing the risk of failure.