Oxygen therapy improves survial for patients with chronic lung conditions, including COPD. Additionally, oxygen can reduce symptoms of breathlessness and increase exercise tolerance. Traditional oxygen is delivered by nasal cannula; however, transtracheal oxygen bypasses the upper airways and is delivered through a catheter in the trachea.
Why is it used?
- Using a transtracheal approach to oxygen delivery can reduce the amount of oxygen flow needed at rest and with exercise
- It can reduce the symptoms of shortness of breath and improve patient mobility
What Makes Transtracheal Oxygen Different?
- Unlike other oxygen therapies, it is delivered directly into the trachea via a small catheter
- This type of delivery can improve oxygen compliance and may be more comfortable than traditional nasal delivery
Benefits of Transtracheal Oxygen Delivery
- TTO delivery bypasses the “dead space” in the upper airways and mouth, allowing oxygen to pass directly into the trachea
- This reduces the overall oxygen needed during rest and with exercise