Peak inspiratory flow as predictor for tracheotomy

Publication date: Available online 30 June 2017
Source:European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Diseases
Author(s): M. Lesnik, J. J. Sanchez-Guerrero, O. De Crouy Chanel, C. Hervé, J. Guerlain, S. Périé
ObjectivesQuantitative evaluation of upper airway obstruction cannot be commonly performed under acute dyspnea, especially in head and neck cancer (HNC); the decision whether or not to perform airway control surgery may be difficult to reach. Peak inspiratory flow (PIF) has been previously demonstrated to be a useful tool to decide on decannulation after HNC surgery. The aim of the present study was to assess the role of PIF as a standardized non-invasive tool in quantifying severe inspiratory dyspnea requiring emergency tracheostomy.Materials and methodsA single-center prospective observational pilot study analyzed PIF measurements in 22 patients exhibiting acute dyspnea due to upper airway obstruction.Main outcome measuresThe decision whether or not to perform tracheotomy was taken prior to PIF measurement. PIF was measured with a hand-held PIF meter (In-Check method), and laryngeal fiberoscopy was then performed. Obstruction severity was defined by PIF values.ResultsPIF could be measured prior to tracheotomy (imminent in 21 cases, postponed in 1) in all cases. PIF values below 53.1 L/min (i.e., 18.3% of theoretic value) correlated with necessity for emergency tracheotomy. This threshold is concordant with that previously found for the feasibility of decannulation (60L/min).ConclusionsPIF is a non-invasive quantitative parameter assessing severity of upper airway obstruction, that may be helpful in decision-making for tracheostomy. Testing is simple, quick and reproducible.



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