
4.1 Speaking with the Fenestrated Tube
For speaking with REF 581, either the speaking valve TRACOE® phon
assist I without or with oxygen supply port (REF 650-S or REF 650-SO)
or the speaking valve TRACOE® phon assist II (finger-free speaking
valve REF 655-S) can be inserted into the connector for connection.
During inhalation the valves let air enter through the tube into the
trachea; during expiration the speaking valve occludes and the air flows
beside the tube and, also, through the fenestration through the trachea
into the upper respiratory tract, making voice formation possible.
CAUTION: Speaking valves may only be used for conscious patients
who are able to breathe spontaneously. Patients must be carefully
instructed and monitored by qualified personnel for familiarisation
to REF 650-S, REF 650-SO, or REF 655-S. The valves should be
removed for the night’s rest.
Speaking valves must not be used for patients with laryngeal stenosis,
vocal cord paralysis, severe tracheal stenosis, airway obstructions,
infections of the respiratory tract, or heavy secretion.
Conditions apply likewise to the use of a heat and moisture exchanger
(HME).
5. Cleaning and Disinfection
5.1 Cleaning
The Silicone Short Tubes can be cleaned with normal house-
hold means like, for example, mild detergents. For cleaning
TRACOE® Silicone Short Tubes TRACOE medical recommends the
use of a complete TRACOE® tube clean cleaning set (REF 930-A
or REF 930-B with cleaning powder or REF 931-A or REF 931-B
with concentrated cleaning liquid). The kits each contain a cleaning
tub with a mesh insert, cleaning agent, cleaning swabs, and cleaning
brush. Please follow the respective instructions.
CAUTION: The products must never be cleaned with aggressive
household detergents, denture cleansers, or concentrated alcohol as
these may have a lasting adverse effect on the function of the product.
5.2 Disinfection
Because the upper respiratory tract is never without germs – even in
healthy persons – we do not recommend the use of disinfection.
If, however, disinfection appears necessary, TRACOE medical can
provide, on request, a list of tested disinfectants. This list can also be
7