>But in the view of what I´ve heard from vent-users that have a trach. this
seems >to be not so bad. I would like to know your opinion about that,
specially from
>people who have been previously using a noninvasive method of ventilatory
>support and finally had to be changed to trach. ventilation.
Dr. Quiroga....
I have read your posts before here on the vent group..and I admire the
interest that you show regarding your patients and the type of ventilation
necessary for survival.
In your lastest post..I see that you are interested in the participants
viewpoint of invasive vs. non-invasive ventilation. As you will notice
there will be varing opinions as to which way is the best.
All that I can tell you is a bit of my story...I like Carol..here on the
list use a trach with a ventilator. I am 39 years old, para, and use a
power wheelchair. My diagnosis is respiratory insufficiency due to post
polio syndrome with severe scoliosis. I contracted polio at the age of 7
months old from the vaccine.
Throughtout my life I had severe bouts of respiratory infections, 2
respiratory arrests which resulted in a coma. But it wasn't until 1994
while hospitalized with respiratory failure did the concept of any type of
permanent mechanical ventilation arrise. At that time when I was admitted
in ER..the doctor on call happened to be the best pulmonologist in the
area. He took my case..and someone finally diagnosed me with post polio
syndrome, and helped me understand that I needed breathing assistance and
quick.
During that hospitalization we tried CPap..mask ventilation, and I just
absoultly couldn't tolerate it. I was miserable, and going down hill fast.
Finally I said give me the trach. The surgical procedure was done in less
that 8 hrs after my request. Suddenly...my whole body changed. I became
alert, cohereant, and ready to live life. After training both my PA's,
boyfriend, and myself about vent settings, trach care, and suctioning, I
was ready to go home.
I have not regretted the decision to this day. I have become healthier,
more alert, less tired, and have less infections. I can now get the
secretions out which is the primary factor in respiratory infections.
Before the trach I just couldn't get the mucus out.
It will be 4 years of being trached in April...and now it is just a way of
life..that I have accepted.
My suggestion for you in knowing which type of ventilation is best for your
patients, if it is not life threatening..ask them what they want. Lay it
on the line...experiment with the different options available. Treat your
patient as the knowledgable person that they are.
I have been lucky that my pulmonologist..Dr. Sanjabi..listens to me and
treats me like the knowledgable individual that I am regarding knowing my
body. I accept his medical expertise..but he lets me speak my mind.
If I can be of any further assistance..feel free to contact me at any time.
Thanks..
Annette Hanna
nete1(AT)midwest.net