Responses to some questions

loni (suzi(AT)best.com)
Sat, 19 Apr 1997 17:15:40 -0700 (PDT)

Blane,
A Montgomery is a tube made out of silicon rubber, commonly called RTV.
It's the glue used to hold fish tanks together. It's got rings that hold a
washer also made from the same material. Finally, there is a plug that goes
into the exterior end of the tube. The tube is flexible and does not weigh
much at all. If anyone is interested, I can scan the instructions and send
them to Jim Lubin for posting on his web site. I don't know if he is
interested.

Annette,
There is no denying it, the trach changes are not fun. The change from the
Montgomery to the Shiley at night has taken a long time to adjust to. It
still hurts at first, but the pain is gone in a few minutes. The change the
other direction is not nearly as traumatic. I feel that the comfort of the
Montgomery easily makes up for the discomfort of the changes.

About two and 1/2 months after the tracheostomy, I needed to prepare
to get back to work. I did not want to deal with the Shiley while at work.
I have a difficult time clearing my throat even though it is fenestrated.