Interfaces to Connect the HandiHaler and Aerolizer Powder Inhalers to a Tracheostomy Tube

BACKGROUND: Patients with respiratory failure are often unable to inhale powdered aerosol medications such as long-acting β agonists and long-acting anticholinergics, which are important treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.

OBJECTIVE: To explore delivery of aerosolized powder medications via tracheostomy tube.

METHODS: We designed interfaces to connect the HandiHaler and Aerolizer devices to tracheostomy tubes, and to connect the HandiHaler to a manual resuscitator bag. With these interfaces, in 23 patients, we assessed the clinical ease/difficulty of delivery and delivery time of the first 3 administrations of powder-aerosol long-acting β agonists and long-acting anticholinergics from the HandiHaler and the Aerolizer.

RESULTS: The powder aerosols were readily delivered to all the patients. Nineteen of the 23 patients (83%) were able to inhale the medication on their own. In the 4 patients who were unable to effectively inhale the medication on their own, bag-assist was successful. The aerosol delivery time was usually < 3 min.

CONCLUSIONS: With a proper interface, powdered long-acting β agonists and long-acting anticholinergics can be easily delivered via tracheostomy tube, even if the patient cannot inhale on his or her own. Further studies are needed to assess particle size, dose delivery, and clinical efficacy with these interfaces and device modifications.