This two-way valve gives tracheostomy patients complete control over how airflow is directed into the upper airway. The Bias Open position allows patients to breathe through the tracheostomy tube as if there were no valve in place until they go to voice. This position allows patients to utilize a speaking valve earlier in the recovery period and is ideal for patients with a unique anatomy (narrowing of the airway or partial airway obstruction). Bias Open is achieved by placing the valve so that the small, half-moon-shaped notch on the front is positioned at 12 o'clock or "up." See Figure 1 below. Clinicians, for more detailed information, click here. Figure 1: The Bias Closed position is recommended for patients who can tolerate every single breath going into the upper airway. Bias Closed is achieved by placing the valve so that the small, half-moon-shaped notch on the front is positioned at 6 o'clock or "down." See Figure 2 below. Clinicians, for more detailed information, click here. Figure 2:

Included with each Shikani Speaking Valve is a flexible retaining lanyard for attaching the valve to the tracheostomy tube to prevent loss of the valve.

Offers lower resistance during inhalation, enabling patients to inhale easily.

The Shikani Speaking Valve is currently the only valve on the market that can be utilized in conjunction with an HME, allowing patients to receive the benefits of speech and increased pulmonary health

Depending on the level of visibility desired, patients can select clear, tan or blue.

The Shikani Speaking Valve and the Shikani HME are proudly made in the USA and have received FDA clearance for compliance, patient safety and marketing.

The Shikani HME is an exceptional HME that incorporates three unique design elements for optimal and efficient air flow while maintaining an acceptable level of humidification.

The use of a speaking valve and an HME together allows tracheostomy patients to receive the benefits of both speech and increased pulmonary health.

First, the dimpled/curved section in the center of the distal wall directs the airflow into the center of the HME and thus into the ball valve intake or tracheostomy tube. This detail improves airflow through the HME and redirects the flow more smoothly into and out of the speaking valve or tracheostomy tube. Figure 1:

The domed distal wall shape provides additional volume and dead space above the HME media, in order to enhance condensation within the body, thereby enhancing humidification within the small profile of this HME.

This HME also takes advantage of the unique size and low profile design of this ball design speaking valve in order to maintain a very low visual profile. Air flow through the HME is designed to take advantage of the space to the sides of the compact ball valve when attached. Utilizing the volume in this laterally situated area to provide the desired media contact area necessary for achieving humidification allows this HME design to present a much lower visible profile. These three design elements allow both efficient airflow through the HME, sufficient contact area and contact time to produce a desired level of humidification effect, and a highly desirable low visual profile for the patient Figure 2:

A universal HME is also available to fit any standard 15mm tracheostomy tube cannula.