Types and Parts of Tracheotomy Tubes
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There are many types and brands of tracheotomy tubes. The tubes also come in many sizes. Your doctor will decide the type and size of tube your child will need. The type of tracheotomy tube your child can be based on:
- Your child's breathing problem
- Your child's age
- The size of your child's airway
- Special needs your child might have
Synthetic Tubes
Most synthetic tubes generally have the same basic parts:
- The tracheotomy tube or cannula
- The flanges or faceplate where the ties are secured
- The obturator or guide for inserting the tube
Here are pictures of the synthetic trach tubes used at Cincinnati Children's:
Flanges and Obturators
Flanges rest on the child's neck. Tracheotomy ties are attached on both sides (shown below).
A guide is placed inside the tube when the tube is being inserted. The obturator (shown below) is removed immediately after the tube is placed.
Revised 7/07
