Evaluating a 3 oz water protocol for patients with tracheostomies

Investigation of a 3 oz Water Protocol on Patients With Tracheostomies

Observational Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NCT06120790

This study is testing a new 3 oz water swallowing test for patients with tracheostomies to see if it can better identify those at risk of choking compared to standard swallow tests.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT06120790 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research examines the effectiveness of a 3 oz water screening protocol for patients with tracheostomies, comparing it to traditional instrumental swallow assessments like the Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of the Swallow and the Modified Barium Swallow Study. The study aims to identify patients at risk of aspiration, which can occur when food or liquid enters the lungs during eating or drinking. By utilizing this novel protocol, clinicians may gain valuable insights into the swallowing capabilities of these patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have a tracheostomy and are alert during testing.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a tracheostomy or those who are unable to remain alert for testing will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this protocol could provide a simpler and more effective screening method for aspiration risk in patients with tracheostomies.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel for tracheostomy patients, similar screening protocols have shown promise in other populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Has a tracheostomy
* Able to remain alert for testing
* Not on a modified diet for pre-existing dysphagia
* No head of bed restrictions
* Not NPO by physician for any reason other than possible dysphagia
* At least 18 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

* Does not have a tracheostomy
* Unable to remain alert for testing
* On a modified diet due to pre-existing dysphagia
* Head of bed restrictions for greater than or equal to 30 degrees
* NPO by physician for reasons other than possible dysphagia
* Less than 18 years old

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Tracheostomy
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.