What is TTO?

[Blossom/Jackie W.]

In Canada; at least in Atlantic Canada, I don't believe they do TTO's simply because a patient wants one done. It's too bad really.

Since some oxygen patients may not be aware of this proceedure and the "why" people have it performed (particularly in the US)...the info below may help...

Transtracheal Oxygen Therapy (extracted from Johns Hopkins Medical Site)

What is Transtracheal Oxygen Therapy (TTO)?TTO is a method of delivering oxygen directly into the lungs through a small flexible catheter (or tube) which passes from the lower neck into the trachea or windpipe. For many people, TTO is more effective in getting oxygen into the blood because it gets the oxygen right into the lungs where it is used. Most patients can have the catheter placed in the trachea by a pulmonologist or ENT physician in one day.

What are the benefits of using TTO?
· Performed with local anesthesia
· Improved oxygen levels in the blood
· Increased mobility
· Improved comfort and convenience
· Improved appearance
Am I a person who could benefit from TTO?
Anyone who uses oxygen 24 hours per day is a potential candidate. Additionally, there are new indications for the use of TTO, such as people with sleep apnea. Even if you are a new oxygen patient, you should still consider using TTO. The procedure is completely reversible.

What are my responsibilities if I get TTO?
You will be required to return to see the physician who performed your procedure 4-5 times for follow-up care. While at home, you will have to clean the catheter at least twice a day. It will take about 10 minutes.

What about my oxygen company?
Most home oxygen companies are familiar with TTO and are able to provide the proper equipment. If not, arrangements can be made so you receive all the supplies necessary to use TTO.

Also:

A comparative study posted by NCBI – Nasal Cannula vs TTO Delivery www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=1554209&dopt=Abstract


Also; Oxygen Therapy from the National Jewish Medical Ctr has a diagram and explanation
library2.nationaljewish.org/MSU/11n6MSU_Oxygen.html

Our forum friend Wendy (she lives in Colorado) is having this proceedure done this morning (see her previous post on TTO). She'll be released tomorrow. After reading the above, and her earlier post, I know that if you have any questions for her she'll be happy to answer as soon as she back in the saddle.

[LindaNY]

I would go that way in a heart beat when the time comes... Those nasal cannulas look to be very uncomfortable.