Tracheostomy ties and corks

Changing tracheostomy ties

Change the ties when they are damp or dirty, and when you have somebody to help you. Retie the ties if they stretch out or become too loose.

Different ties can be used to hold the tracheostomy tube in place, such as twill tape, biastape, or Velcro tube holders. Be sure the clean ties are in place before the dirty ties are removed.

Twill tape or bias tape

1. Cut a piece of tape about 30 inches long.
2. Put the tie through the opening in the neck plate.
3. Bring the tie around to the other side of the neck.
4. Put the same end through the other side in the neck plate.
5. Tie a triple knot at the side of the neck.
6. Make sure the new ties are not too tight or too loose. You should be able to put one finger under the ties.
7. Remove the old ties.

Velcro tube holder

1. Remove one tie from the neck plate.
2. Put the tip of the slit end of the Velcro tie through the opening in the neck plate.
3. Fasten the Velcro tightly.
4. Repeat this on the other side.
5. Secure the Velcro ties at the back of the neck.
6. Make sure the new ties are not too tight or too loose. You should be able to put one finger under the ties.

Using a cork in a tracheostomy

Some people can cork their tracheotomy tube.

Steps to use a cork

1. Tie the cork string to the ties around your neck.
2. Place the cork into the breathing hole in your tracheostomy tube.
3. Take out the cork if you have trouble breathing or need to cough out secretions.
4. Take out the cork when cleaning your inner cannula.