Understanding and treating infections in children with tracheostomies
Official title: Diagnosis and management of pediatric tracheostomy-associated infections
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-10929387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how doctors treat bacterial infections in children with tracheostomies, especially those caused by a tough germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, to find better ways to help these kids get the right care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $442,202 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HS027619-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children who have a tracheostomy and are experiencing or at risk for bacterial respiratory infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a tracheostomy or those not experiencing respiratory infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the diagnosis and management of bacterial infections in children who have tracheostomies, which are artificial airways used for various medical conditions. It focuses on understanding how clinicians decide to treat these infections, particularly those caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common and challenging bacterium. The study aims to identify factors influencing treatment decisions and to evaluate the effectiveness of current antibiotic practices. By analyzing hospital-level variations in care, the research seeks to improve treatment protocols for these vulnerable patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for bacterial infections in children with tracheostomies, potentially reducing hospitalizations and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited evidence specifically addressing tracheostomy-associated infections, similar research in pediatric respiratory infections has shown promise in improving treatment outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Russell, Christopher John — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Russell, Christopher John
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Novel Tracheostomy Alert Device for Children and Adults
A new, affordable sensor and loud alert system will warn caregivers if a tracheostomy tube is blocked or comes out, with a focus on protecting children who have the procedure.
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EPIPHANY: Using AI to guide when to do tracheostomy for patients on long ventilators
An AI-based platform aims to help ICU teams decide the best time for tracheostomy in patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation, potentially reducing complications and costs.
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Airway microbes and viral infections in children with tracheostomies
This project looks at how airway germs and the body's response during viral infections affect illness in children who have tracheostomies and use home ventilation.
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Understanding infections in children with tracheostomies
This study is looking at what causes respiratory infections in children with tracheostomies, so we can better understand which kids might get sick more often and help them stay healthier.
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Investigating how viral infections affect children with tracheostomies and their microbiomes
This study is looking at children with tracheostomies who are more likely to get serious respiratory infections, to see how the germs in their airways and their immune system work together during these infections, with the hope of finding better ways to treat them.
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Creating a tool to help families make decisions about tracheostomy in the ICU
This study is working to make it easier for families to make decisions about tracheostomy procedures in the ICU by creating a helpful tool that addresses their specific questions and worries.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.