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Speech-language pathologists must consider the complex relationship of tracheostomy and ventilator-dependency with swallowing function in making treatment decisions that consider a patient’s potential aspiration risk. This self-study reviews recent literature related to dysphagia in the trach/vent population, including the pros and cons of tracheostomy, the use of blue dye to detect aspiration risk, and the so-called “trach effect” in pediatric dysphagia.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• discuss the risks and advantages associated with the use of tracheostomy tubes versus oral or nasal intubation
• discuss recent literature on the use of blue dye and oxidase reagent strips to detect pulmonary aspiration
• list options for reducing or elimating the risk of aspiration in tracheostomized patients
• discuss the so-called “trach effect” on language, motor speech, and phonology in pediatric patients with long-term tracheostomies
• review published studies addressing how patients with dysphagia perceive their swallowing problems

 View the Table of Contents [PDF]