A Case of Intractable Tracheitis Treated by Heat-Moisture Exchangers in a Total Laryngectomized Patient

ABSTRACT

The tracheostomy directs external air into the airway tract. This process causes mucosal dryness, irritation and inflammation in the tracheo-bronchial tree. In order to prevent such problems, several methods are applied; ointment application, humidification and careful suction etc. The heat-moisture exchanger (HME) is commercially sold device that assists heating and humidification of the inhaled air. The authors experienced successful treatment outcome of intractable tracheitis caused by repetitive and vigorous intra-tracheal suction by applying HME in a total laryngectomized patient. We report an interesting and didactic case with a brief literature review.