• Tracheostomy ties help stabilize and keep the tracheal cannula securely in place. They are inserted in the openings found on each flange on the tracheal cannula.
• Below is a suggested method that can serve as a guide; discuss the care and equipment required specifically by your child with your child’s healthcare team.

Considerations:

METHOD FOR SECURING THE TRACHEAL CANNULA

• A Velcro® band is usually the first choice, but cotton ribbons can also be used.
• The Velcro® band is composed of a piece of material that rests on the child’s neck; this piece of fabric has 2 thin bands at each end that can be inserted into the openings of each flange.
• The most important thing to consider when of choosing tracheostomy ties is not the material that they are made of, but the safety of maintaining the cannula in the tracheostomy.
• In order to prevent irritation of the skin, the tracheostomy ties must remain clean at all times.
• Changing the tracheostomy ties is simple but to prevent accidental decannulation, it is recommended that it be done with 2 people. The first person stabilizes the tracheal cannula by placing their fingers on the flanges, while the second person changes the tracheal ties.
• Good handwashing is essential before and after providing care.
• Ensure the comfort of your child during the care by using different positioning and distraction techniques.

• To prevent skin irritation, the tracheostomy ties must be changed 2 times per week or more often if needed.
• The tracheostomy ties must also be changed:
  • if wet,
  • if soiled,
  • if no longer in good condition,
  • if there is a bad odour,
  • if too tight or too loose (cotton ribbons),
  • if the velcro no longer holds (sticks) properly,
  • when changing the tracheal cannula.
• The best time to change the tracheostomy ties is during bath time; allows you to examine and wash the neck.
• The tension and condition of the tracheostomy ties along with the appearance of the skin under the ties must be verified at least once a day; look for redness, irritation or presence of pressure points.