Having a Tracheostomy
Will I be able to speak after the operation?
You may not be able to speak immediately after the surgery and this is because the tracheostomy has a little inflated balloon on the inside, Called the cuff, which means air will not pass through the mouth and nose. This balloon is inflated to ensure that any bleeding caused while inserting the tracheostomy tube is not inhaled into the lungs. Once the balloon is deflated then it may be possible to talk by covering the tracheostomy tube with a finger or using a speaking valve. The doctors and nurses will discuss this with you. You will be shown how to talk and use a speaking valve.
There will always be a way in which you can communicate, such as sound, gestures, writing or other people reading your lips. All the hospital and community staff are dedicated to help and support you and your family to a new way of communication.
Who will be involved in my Care?
You and your family may like to find out about what having a tracheostomy really means. You will meet several health professionals before your operation as well as the doctors and nurses.
Head and Neck Macmillan Nurse / Tracheostomy Specialist Nurse
The specialist nurses will provide both you and your family with information, support and advice concerning all aspects of your illness, treatment and recovery.
Speech and language therapist
The Speech and Language Therapist will help you develop new ways of communicating and teach you new skills. You will be invited to meet with a person who has already gone through this operation, and this may help you and your family more fully understand what to expect.
Dietician
The dietician will give you advice on all your nutrition needs throughout your treatment and ensure these are met while you are recovering from your surgery.
Physiotherapist
The physiotherapist will help you with your breathing whilst recovering from your tracheostomy.
Head and Neck Counselor
The Head and Neck Counselor will help give you and your family psychological support through your surgery and treatment and give opportunity for structured counseling if necessary.
Hospital appointments before your Operation
Pre-Treatment assessment
You may be asked to attend a pre-treatment assessment where you will have a chance to meet and talk to the professionals involved in your care and discuss any issues you have with your treatment and recovery plan. You may be asked to complete some questionnaires in order for your professional team to assess any immediate needs, both physical and psychological, to prepare you and your family for surgery.
Pre-Admission
You may be invited to attend a pre-admission assessment one or two weeks before your operation. This enables both the doctors and the nurses to assess your health needs and carry out tests such as, blood tests, heart tracings (ECG) and chest X-rays. This ensures that it is safe for you to undergo a general anaesthetic. It is important that you bring any medication that you are taking for the medial staff to see.
The pre-admission assessment clinic is an opportunity for you to meet the ward staff and see where you will be admitted on the day of your operation. It is also a time when you can ask questions and discuss any queries you may have concerning your operation.