Nasal prongs are often removed because of discomfort, restricted mobility, or cosmetic concerns.
Prongs are also unstable and are frequently dislodged when the patient sleeps.
Pulmonologists and otolaryngologists may be most familiar with the myriad complications and discomforts associated with the use of nasal prongs. 2 Greater convenience and oxygen conservation are of intermediate importance, and appearance is least important when patients are asked to rank these issues as they enter a transtracheal program. True 24 hour per day compliance, a more active lifestyle and conservation of oxygen resources are all feasible with this technology. TTO can be used in tandem with oxygen conservation devices, and in that way further reduce bulk oxygen consumption. Transtracheal oxygen therapy has also been shown to increase exercise tolerance and decrease the oxygen cost of breathing.