Lower airway humidification in spontaneously breathing tracheostomized patients: comparative study of trachea spray versus heated humidifier.

BACKGROUND

Our aim was to compare inhalation with molecular water (vaporizing humidifier) and particulate water (trachea spray) in spontaneously breathing tracheostomized patients.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, 2-way crossover study and a prospective, comparative, nonblinded study. Tracheal humidity and temperature were measured before and after use of a humidifier and spray for 1 week.

RESULTS

After both inhalation and spray, the tracheal temperature and total water content increased significantly (study 1). The temperature gradient between ambient and tracheal air was significantly higher after spray, but not after inhalation (study 2). The water gradient increased nonsignificantly after spray and inhalation. The water gradient after inhalation or spray did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Molecular water is not superior to particulate water because of temperature and humidity increase after both forms of water delivery. Because of its easy use, portability, and moisturizing effect, a trachea spray may offer additional options in postoperative tracheostomy care.