Pediatric-Onset Rehabilitation

Trachea Support

Discussion

Behl (2005) described the long-term tracheostomy tube management in a retrospective cohort of 9 children with ventilator dependency observed over an average of 7 years; they required tracheostomy tube increases about every 2 years. Tracheal size (internal, external, and lateral) correlated with age and weight, but the correlation with age was more reliable as the weight was harder to predict because of stunted growth and immobility. In addition, the paper noted that 4/9 of children needed tracheostomy dilatation in order to insert the larger tracheostomy tube.

Respiratory comorbidities in children with SCI are common and require hospitalized care.

Lung volumes and generated airway pressures depend on age and level and severity of the injury.

Pulmonary hygiene, management of anxiety, and learning alternative methods of breathing that can offer ventilator-free time play important roles in the long-term management of respiratory dysfunction associated with SCI.

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