Covidien 8DCFS Shiley Tracheostomy Tube Cuffless w/ Disposable Inner Cannula

Covidien 8DCFS Shiley Tracheostomy Tube Cuffless w/ Disposable Inner Cannula

• Model: 8DCFS
• 7.6 mm I.D
• 12.2 mm O.D
• 79mm

The Shiley 8DCFS cuffless tracheostomy tube with disposable inner cannula is designed for adult patients who require a stable airway via tracheostomy but do not require an inflatable cuff to seal the airway. This design is often chosen when the risk of aspiration is low or when spontaneous (non-ventilator) breathing, phonation, or airflow through the upper airway is desired. Since there is no cuff, air can pass around the exterior of the outer cannula, enabling more natural airflow dynamics, which is beneficial in weaning, speaking valve use, or maneuvers toward decannulation.

One of its key features is the disposable inner cannula: clinicians can remove and discard the inner cannula (or replace it) without removing the entire tracheostomy tube, which aids in managing secretions, maintaining patency, and reducing the need for full tube exchange. The inclusion of a decannulation plug allows the proximal end to be sealed when necessary, supporting speaking or upper airway breathing. The tube’s smooth, rounded-tip obturator helps in safe insertion, and the integral 15 mm connector gives compatibility with standard ventilator circuits or other airway equipment when needed (though in many cases a cuffless tube is used without full ventilator support).

Operationally, the 8DCFS is used where the benefits of an uncuffed airway are desired — for example, in patients who are spontaneously breathing, being weaned, or where minimizing airway resistance is valued. Because there is no cuff, the clinician must be more vigilant for aspiration risk and monitoring airway patency. Choosing the correct size (inner and outer diameter) is critical to balance flow versus comfort. The disposable inner cannula simplifies care and decreases the risk of tube lumen occlusion by secretions. While not suited for high-risk aspiration or ventilator-dependent patients who require tight airway sealing, a cuffless tube like the 8DCFS offers a lower-resistance, more physiologic airway alternative in many suitable situations.