Covidien 8CN85H Shiley 8.5mm Adult Flexible Tracheostomy Tube w/ TaperGuard Cuff

Covidien 8CN85H Shiley 8.5mm I.D. Adult Flexible Tracheostomy Tube w/ TaperGuard Cuff Disposable Inner Cannula

• Model: 8CN85H
• 8.5mm I.D., 12.2mm O.D.

The Shiley 8CN85H flexible tracheostomy tube is intended for adult patients who require a tracheostomy with a larger internal airway (8.5 mm) to facilitate higher ventilator flows, better secretion management, or lower resistance. The “flexible” distinction means that the tube is not rigid; it can better adapt to patient anatomy and tolerate movement, improving comfort and reducing the risk of pressure points. The TaperGuard™ cuff is a hallmark of the newer Shiley lines: it is tapered (narrow toward the distal end) and designed to form a more conforming, low‑pressure seal, reducing leakage potential and minimizing the radial pressure against the tracheal wall — thereby helping reduce the risk of tracheal injury from cuff overpressure or uneven contact.

In clinical deployment, the tube can be placed through a surgically created stoma or via percutaneous tracheostomy technique. With its thinner cuff, the insertion is easier (less force required), which is particularly helpful when navigating tight anatomy. Once in place, the cuff is inflated to achieve a seal adequate for positive pressure ventilation without excessive pressure. The disposable inner cannula can be removed, cleaned or replaced while keeping the outer cannula in situ, which aids airway hygiene and reduces the need to exchange the entire tube. The flexible design also allows for movement, minimizing stress on the stoma site and adjacent tissues.

From an operational standpoint, selecting a larger internal diameter (8.5 mm) helps reduce airway resistance, especially important in ventilator weaning, high minute volume requirements, or when patients have higher airway demands. The increased airflow around the outer cannula (when cuff is deflated) supports better breathing trials, speaking valve use, or capping protocols. Because of the tapered cuff design and lower lateral pressure, clinicians may be able to maintain cuff seals at lower pressures, which can improve safety margins in prolonged tracheostomy care. As always, proper sizing, cuff pressure monitoring, and vigilance for complications (cuff leaks, tracheal wall stress, tube displacement) are essential to safe and effective use.