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Speech valves designed for use by patients with an inserted tracheostomy tube after tracheostomy procedures. These devices typically consist of a one-way valve that is located in the hub of a tracheostomy tube allowing air to get in but not out; the exhaled gas from the lungs goes through the natural breathing ducts including the vocal cords, mouth, and nose, making speech possible. Some valves may include air filters and/or humidifiers. Most speech tracheostomy valves can also be used by patients who are under mechanical ventilation by placing the valve in the ventilator tube; other dedicated valves intended for placement in line between the tracheostomy and the ventilator tubes are also used.
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