ABSTRACT
Insertion of a catheter into the trachea to remove aspirate or excess bronchial secretions. Negative pressure (60-150 mmHg/8-20 kPa) is applied to the catheter to produce a suction effect. Access may be gained through a permanent tracheal stoma, tracheostomy tube, endotracheal tube, mini-tracheostomy, nasal or oral airway.
