I have a patient who was decannulated months ago, yet her stoma never closed. She breathes through her nose and you also hear air coming out of the stoma. Do you know of any reasons why a stoma may not close? A google search said they should close in 1-2 weeks. 0 Likes
NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion. Has 45 years experience. 11 Articles; 17,332 Posts Mar 19, 2019 Prolonged presence of a tracheostomy tube or trach stoma may result in failure to close stoma. Stoma may remain open until surgically closed via muscle or skin flap. Depending on medical condition, some patients need stoma to breathe at night; others don't follow-up with physician to have stoma closed--- so stoma remains open for years without problems. 0 Likes
