Validating the Pilot Balloon Method with a Manometer in Monitoring the Cuff Pressure in Dysphagia Individuals Secondary to Tracheostomy

Aim: To validate the pilot balloon method with a manometer in monitoring the cuff pressure in dysphagia individuals secondary to tracheostomy. Materials and methods:The study was conducted on n = 25 cuffed tracheostomized individuals.The cuff pressure was evaluated using the pilot balloon palpation method and manometer at four time intervals every 3 hours.Results: The majority of the participants were rated with an underinflated cuff, followed by adequate cuff pressure and overinflation with the pilot balloon method.Fall of cuff pressure observed after 3 hours of duration.In the measurements made at time point 1, the manometric pressure and pilot balloon palpation methods exhibited a fair agreement; however, in further time points, this agreement decreased to almost none.This implies that the results of the pilot balloon palpation method do not match the manometric pressure results over time. Conclusion:It is suggested to mandate the use of a manometer in monitoring the cuff pressure at least every 3 hours to avoid secondary complications related to cuff pressure of the tracheostomy tube.Clinical significance: The pilot balloon method cannot be considered a reliable method, mandating the use of a manometer.It is important to frequently monitor with a manometer to improve the outcomes and reduce secondary complications.