Using ventilators for speaking and swallowing

Abstract

An inflated cuff, although commonly though to be required for the ventilator-dependent patient with a tracheostomy cannula, precludes speaking and has adverse implications for swallowing. Clinical trials with five ventilator-dependent, cognitively intact individuals with glottic control document that a deflated cuff is compatible with ventilation, preserves oral communication, and restores safe alimentation by mouth. © 1991 Springer-Verlag New York Inc.