What the Bivona Trach Tube Shortage Means for You (and Steps To Safely Reusing What You Have)

Bivona tracheostomy (trach) tubes are currently unavailable from the manufacturer and although they are expected to supply them again in the future, we can no longer provide them for our patients once we use up our stock.

In the most recent update from Smiths Medical we received on April 9, 2019, they informed us that they will be able to begin shipping sterilized tracheostomy tubes again the week of April 22 on a strategic release schedule – read the full letter here:

4.9.19 Letter from Smiths Medical

We will be sure to let you know when they are back in stock at PHS. In the meantime we want to remind you of the option to clean and reuse any Bivona trach tubes, obturators, and wedges you already have. You can clean and disinfect the trach tube up to five times. Always wash your hands and put on medical gloves when cleaning and disinfecting the trach tube.

Please contact PHS when you run low on your supply of Bivona trach tubes. PHS can work with you and your doctor to delect a similar trach tube from a different manufacturer.

Cleaning a Bivona Trach Tube

1.

Place trach tube, obturator, and wedge in clean container filled with hot water and standard dish soap.

Allow parts to soak in soapy water for 60 minutes.

2.

Use cotton tip swab to thoroughly clean inside and outside of:

– Trach tube flange
– Trach tube hub
– Trach tube shaft

Repeat steps 1 and 2 until you remove all mucus from the trach tube.

3.

Completely rinse trach tube, obturator, and wedge with hot water.

Disinfect trach tube, obturator, and wedge.

Disinfecting a Bivona Trach Tube

1.

Fill clean pot with cold water. Bring water to rolling boil on stove.

Remove pot from heat after water begins to rapidly boil.

2.

Immediately place trach tube, obturator, and wedge into water.

Cover pot with lid and allow water to cool.

3.

Wash work surface and cover with clean towel.

Place all items on the clean towel and allow to air dry completely.

Store items in clean container.

Contact us with any questions

As always, PHS is available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns related to our patients medical needs. Feel free to contact us at 800-225-7477, or reach out to your respiratory therapist for more information.