A tracheostomy is an opening into the trachea (windpipe) that allows air to be pumped directly into the lungs. Many trach tubes are fitted with inflatable cuffs, which, when deflated, allow air to pass over the vocal cords, making speech possible. When the cuff is deflated, air "leaks" up around the tube and less air gets into the lungs, but many people can tolerate this air leak with adjustments to their ventilation system.

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