Tracheostomy Speaking Valve (L8501)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Speaking Valve, Tracheostomy Speech Valve
• Technical/Medical Term: Tracheostomy Speaking Valve

Summary

A Tracheostomy Speaking Valve is a medical device designed to enable speech for patients who have undergone tracheostomy, a surgical procedure to create an opening in the trachea (windpipe) to aid breathing.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Used for patients with tracheostomies to help them speak.
• Goals: Facilitate speech, improve the quality of life, enhance communication.

Indications

• Difficulty speaking due to a tracheostomy.
• Stable respiratory status to tolerate valve use.
• Alert and capable of following instructions.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: No specific fasting or medication adjustments required.
• Assessments: Pulmonary function tests, speech evaluation, and patient’s ability to exhale adequately.

Procedure Description

1. Examine and clean the tracheostomy site.
2. Place a fenestrated tracheostomy tube if not already in place.
3. Insert the speaking valve onto the tracheostomy tube.
4. Ensure proper fit and secure the valve.
5. Instruction for the patient on how to use the valve for speaking.
   • Tools/Equipment: Fenestrated tracheostomy tube, speaking valve.
   • Anesthesia/Sedation: Not required.

Duration

• The fitting process takes approximately 15-30 minutes.

Setting

• Typically performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Speech-language pathologist, Respiratory therapist, Trained Nurse.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor discomfort, difficulty adapting initially.
• Rare Risks: Airway obstruction, infection, aspiration.
• Management: Monitoring and adjusting the valve, if needed, antibiotics for infection.

Benefits

• Ability to speak.
• Enhanced communication with caregivers and family.
• Improved quality of life.
• Benefits are usually realized immediately after fitting.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular cleaning of the valve and tracheostomy site.
• Recovery Time: Immediate use upon fitting; no specific recovery time.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers for valve assessment and patient instruction.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Electrolarynx, writing, or text-based communication.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives do not allow natural speaking; speaking valve is more effective for verbal communication.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Generally painless, minor discomfort when fitting the valve.
• After Procedure: Initial learning curve to adapt to the valve, manageable with practice.
• Pain Management: Typically none required, over-the-counter pain relief if discomfort persists.