The efficacy of minitracheostomy for the management of sputum retention: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Suction via a minitracheostomy is a safe procedure, but its efficacy in facilitating sputum clearance in individuals with an acute condition has not been systematically reviewed. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify and synthesise the efficacy of the insertion of a minitracheostomy and tracheal suction via minitracheostomy for sputum clearance in adults who have undergone surgery or have an acute condition characterised by sputum retention. Data sources: A systematic literature search using the electronic databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and PEDro, with searches limited to English language journal articles published between 1984 and September 2011...