A Tracheostomy Tube

To improve a tracheostomy tube, the authors have examined the trachea of Japanese in various age groups by x-rays of the neck.Curve of the tube is 112°in median value irrespective of ages.Individual difference and change of the curve by head position are varied about±15°.The distance from the skin surface to the tracheal opening is approximately 10mm. irrespective of ages. From these facts, it is necessary that the tube is 20mm. in length referring to the maximal value, and this distance in each cases is adaptable by the adjustable plate.The length of the tube situated in the trachea is justified 15mm. in infants and 35mm. in adults.It is necessary that the external diameter of the tube is from 3mm. to 15mm. From the results mentioned above, we have designed a new tracheostomy tube made of silicon which is nonirritant and reduces incrustation.And this tube has spiral stainless wire as support, full flexibility and thin wall. The plate of the tube, Koken-type, is more suitable for each cases.