Patients who have undergone total laryngectomy (TL) are, in most cases, affected by lung disease due to smoking habits. Therefore, as part of the follow-up protocol for these patients, a spirometry test should be performed to adequately assess lung function. Current spirometers do not allow for spirometry tests in patients who breathe through a tracheostomy, as the patient cannot perform respiratory acts from the spirometer mouthpiece, which is designed to be used by mouth. We have, therefore, designed a device that allows the test to be performed through the tracheostoma. The device is made of biocompatible polymeric material, modeled using a 3-dimensional printer, reusable, and hermetically connected to the spirometer distally and to the tracheostoma proximally. The device was used on 5 patients who underwent TL and was found to be comfortable, safe, and valid for diagnostic purposes.
Device for Performing Spirometry in Total Laryngectomized Patients
Bianco, Maria Rita;Pullano, Salvatore Andrea;Occhiuzzi, Federico;Latella, Daniele;Di Mieri, Marco;Pelaia, Corrado;Allegra, Eugenia
2024-01-01
Abstract
Patients who have undergone total laryngectomy (TL) are, in most cases, affected by lung disease due to smoking habits. Therefore, as part of the follow-up protocol for these patients, a spirometry test should be performed to adequately assess lung function. Current spirometers do not allow for spirometry tests in patients who breathe through a tracheostomy, as the patient cannot perform respiratory acts from the spirometer mouthpiece, which is designed to be used by mouth. We have, therefore, designed a device that allows the test to be performed through the tracheostoma. The device is made of biocompatible polymeric material, modeled using a 3-dimensional printer, reusable, and hermetically connected to the spirometer distally and to the tracheostoma proximally. The device was used on 5 patients who underwent TL and was found to be comfortable, safe, and valid for diagnostic purposes.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.