Ex vivo humidifying capacity and patient acceptability of stoma cloths in laryngectomized individuals

Background
Heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) improve respiratory function after laryngectomy, but there is virtually no information on the benefit of traditional stoma cloths or other covers.

Methods
Two sequential studies were performed: (1) an ex vivo test was used to compare the humidifying capacity of stoma cloths to other coverings; and (2) a 4-week randomized trial was then performed to assess patient acceptability of cloths both alone and with an HME (N = 18).

Results
The humidifying capacity of the coverings tested varied widely. For stoma cloths, a humidifying capacity of 13.7 mg/L was found to decrease to 8.5 mg/L if air-leaks around the cloth occurred. Patients who used HMEs disliked stoma cloths because they interfered with voicing, they became soiled more easily, and were less effective at reducing coughing and mucus production.

Conclusion
Although less acceptable to patients who use an HME, stoma cloths do provide significant humidifying capacity and should be encouraged when HMEs are unavailable or inappropriate.