From the Guidelines
A Bivona tracheostomy tube is a specialized medical device designed for patients who require long-term airway management, made of soft, flexible silicone material that conforms to the patient's anatomy, reducing the risk of tracheal trauma and increasing comfort. The selection of a tracheostomy tube, such as a Bivona tube, should be based on the individual patient's needs, taking into account the diameter, length, and curvature of the tube to minimize potential complications, as stated in the American Thoracic Society's official statement 1.
Key Features of Bivona Tracheostomy Tubes
- Made of soft, flexible silicone material
- Self-inflating foam-filled cuff for consistent seal
- Available in various sizes and styles, including standard, uncuffed, and custom-length options
- Beneficial for patients with unusual neck anatomy, those at risk for tracheal damage, or individuals requiring home care
Care and Maintenance
- Regular cleaning with mild soap and water
- Complete drying before reinsertion
- Typically last 29-30 days before replacement is needed
- Cannot be cleaned with hydrogen peroxide, which damages the silicone material
- Healthcare providers should follow manufacturer guidelines for sterilization if reuse is necessary, as emphasized in the care of patients with chronic tracheostomy 1.
Clinical Considerations
- The diameter of the tracheostomy tube should be selected to avoid damage to the tracheal wall and minimize work of breathing, as outlined in the consensus statement 1
- The tube should extend at least 2 cm beyond the stoma and no closer than 1-2 cm to the carina
- Curvature should be assessed using neck/chest radiographs or flexible bronchoscopy to ensure the distal portion of the tube is concentric and colinear with the trachea.
From the Research
Tracheostomy Tubes
- A tracheostomy tube is a medical device used to maintain airway patency in patients who require long-term ventilation or have difficulty breathing on their own.
- There are different types of tracheostomy tubes, including cuffed and uncuffed tubes, which are used for various purposes such as positive-pressure ventilation or to prevent aspiration 2.
Bivona Tracheostomy Tube
- Unfortunately, there is no specific information available in the provided studies about the Bivona tracheostomy tube.
- However, the studies discuss the importance of proper tracheostomy care, including regular cleaning and maintenance of the tube, to prevent complications and infections 3, 2.
Care and Management
- Routine tracheostomy care is crucial to maintain airway patency, minimize infection, and ensure skin integrity around the tracheostomy stoma 3.
- The use of daily care bundles, skin care, and moisture-wicking materials can reduce device-associated complications 2.
- Tracheostomy tubes may be safely changed at postoperative day 3, and they should be changed with some regularity (at a minimum of every 1-2 weeks) as well as on an as-needed basis 2.
Infections and Antibiotics
- Respiratory infections are a major cause of hospitalization in children with tracheostomies, and antibiotic therapy is often prescribed to treat these infections 4, 5, 6.
- However, the use of antibiotics should be carefully considered to avoid unnecessary treatments and the emergence of resistant organisms 5, 6.