4.1 Speaking valves
tracheostomy tubes with speaking valve (linGO/PHOn) are used after tracheotomy with a complete or partially retained larynx and
enable the user to speak.
the Humidophone
speaking valve or the Combiphon
speaking valve are also available. these can be used by tracheotomised patients
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who for instance use a perforated tracheostomy tube (with inner cannula) with 22 mm combi-adapter.
in tracheostomy tubes with silver speaking valve, the speaking valve can be detached from the inner cannula by pushing it out.
in tracheostomy tubes with silicone speaking valve, the speaking valve can be detached from the inner cannula by pulling it off.
PreCAUtiOnS
Make sure to read all accompanying product information, instructions for use, indications and contraindications. Discuss use of the prod-
uct with your doctor/physician before first use.
viii. Directions for tube insertion and removal
For the Doctor/Physician
the correct tube must be selected by the doctor/physician or the trained medical professionals.
Select a tube that fits the patient's anatomy to optimise comfort and ventilation (breathing in and out).
the inner cannula can be removed at any time to increase air supply or for cleaning. this can for instance be necessary if the cannula is
clogged up with secretion residues which cannot be removed by coughing or because no equipment for suctioning off the secretions is
available.
For the Patient
PreCAUtiOnS
Check the use-by or expiry date. Do not use after this date.
Carefully examine the tube before first use to make sure that it is not damaged and that there are no loose parts.
Should you notice any anomaly or anything unusual, DO nOt use the tube. return the tube to the manufacturer for inspection.
tracheostomy tubes must be cleaned thoroughly every time before being inserted. Cleaning is also recommended prior to first use if the
tracheostomy tube is not supplied as a sterile product!
the tube must always be cleaned and, if necessary, disinfected as follows before re-inserting according to the instructions provided below.
if secretion collects in the lumen of the Fahl
tracheostomy tube or stoma button and cannot be removed by coughing or aspiration, the
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tube should be removed and cleaned.
After cleaning and/or disinfection, carefully examine the Fahl
tracheostomy tube for sharp edges, cracks, or other signs of damage, since
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these may impair function and/or injure the mucus membranes in the airways.
never under any circumstances continue using damaged tracheostomy tubes.
WArninG
Users must be trained by medical professionals in the safe use of the Fahl
tracheostomy tubes.
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1. insertion of the tube
Step-by-step instructions to insert Fahl
tracheostomy tubes.
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Before application the users should clean their hands (see picture 3).
remove tube from the package (see picture 4).
if an obturator is to be used, this must first be fully inserted into the cannula tube so that the collar on the gripping piece of the obturator
comes into contact with the outer edge of the 15 mm connector and the tip of the olive projects beyond the tip of the cannula (proximal
end of cannula). the obturator must be held in this position during the entire procedure.
next, push a tracheal compress onto the tracheostomy tube.
to facilitate insertion of the tracheostomy tube, it is advisable to lubricate the outer tube by wiping it with an Optifluid
stoma oil wipe (reF
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31550) which allows the stoma oil to be applied evenly to the whole surface of the tube (see picture 4a and 4b).
if you are inserting the tube yourself, use a mirror to make insertion of the Fahl
tracheostomy tube easier.
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When inserting the Fahl
tracheostomy tube, hold it by the neck flange with one hand (see picture 5).
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Pull the tracheostoma slightly apart with your free hand to allow the tip of the tube to fit into the tracheostoma more easily.
Special aids for dilating the tracheostoma are also available (tracheal dilator). these allow the tracheostoma to be dilated gently and even-
ly, for instance also in emergency situations with collapsing tracheostoma (see picture 6).
Make sure that the tube is not damaged by friction when using an instrument for assistance.
now carefully insert the tube into the tracheostoma during the inspiration phase (while breathing in) and tilt your head slightly back while
doing this (see picture 7).
Advance the tube into the trachea.
Straighten your head once the tube has been inserted further into the trachea.
if an obturator is used, this must then immediately be removed from the tracheostomy tube.
the tracheostomy tubes should always be attached with a special tube holder. this stabilises the tube and thus ensures that the tra-
cheostomy tube is securely seated in the tracheostoma (see picture 1).
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