Tracheostomy

Tracheostomy is one of the most important procedures that a medical student must know before graduating from university. We have explained this procedure in a simple way in this file.Tracheostomy, its indications, methods of procedure, and risks.

1. G

Tracheostomy A Lif. e-Saving Procedure

b By DR. Safaa Sahito Na j

m.B. Ch B. FICMS

2. al

Introduction ‘A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating
an opening in the trachea Cwindpipe) to Facilitate breathing. This procedure
is performed For Various medical reasons, including airway obstruction ,
respiratory Failure, and long-term ventilation needs. It is a critical
intervention that can save lives by ensuring that oxygen reaches the lungs

when normal breathing is compromised.

3. Indications For Tracheostomy Tracheostomy is performed For

several reasons, including: ss

' ’

| Airway Obstruction: Conditions such as tumors, infections, or trauma ean block the upper airway ,
necessitating an alternative route For breathing,
2. Prolonged Mechanical Ventiation: Patients in intensive care units who require long-term Ventilation often undergo
tracheostomy to reduce complications associated with endotracheal intubation,
3, Neurological Disorders: Conditions like stroke, spinal cord injuries Or neuromuscular diseases ean
impair the ability to breathe normally , making tracheostomy essential,
3 Congenital Anomalies: Some infants are born with structural abnormalities that obstruet the airway,
requiring a tracheostomy to Facilitate breathing.
5. Severe Trauma or Burns: Injuries to the Face, necK, or chest ean make normal breathing

difFieutt, necessitating a tracheostomy For airway management.

4. ¿ À Proved

can be perf aed n in Shas o primary 2 =

l Sur gical Tracheostomy

Conducted in an operating room, »

placement between,

this method involves making an the second andt

ineision in the necK and inserting Q

tube into the trachea.

5. Percutaneous Tracheostomy

2. Pereutaneous —
: Tracheostomy: A minimally
invasive approach
performed at the bedside
using a needle and dilators
to insert the
tracheostomy tube.

6. The tracheostomy tube allows air to bypass the upper airway,
providing a direct passage To the lungs. It ean be temporary
or permanent J depending on the patient's condition.

> Obturator
| | Inner cannula

Pilot balloon
Flange

Outer cannula

9

Cuff Fenestration

7. 1 Infection: The surgical site may become infected, reguiring medical
intervention.

À Bleeding; Damage to blood vessels during the procedure can lead to excessive
bleeding,

& Airway Damage: The trachea or surrounding structures may be in I during

the procedure.

8. 4, Tube Displacement: Accidental removal or displacement of the
tracheostomy tube can cause breathing difficulties,

5. Dif Fieulty Speaking and Swallowing: The presence of a tracheostomy
tube may af Feet the patient's ability Fo speak or swallow properly,

9. Care and Management Proper care of a tracheostomy

is crucial to prevent complications. This includes:

L Regular Cleaning! The tracheostomy site and tube should be

cleaned regularly to prevent infections.
2. Humidification: K eeping the airway moist helps prevent mucus buildup
and bloeKages.

g Suetioning: Removing secretions From the airway ensures clear breathing,

4, Monitoring For Complications: Patients should be closely observed For
any signs of infection, iF Fi ieulty breathing , or Tube displacement.

10. Conclusion

Tracheostomy is a vital medical procedure that _
provides a life-saving airway For individuals with ~
respiratory challenges. While it comes with risks , proper
care and management significantly improve patient
outcomes, Advances in medical Technology eontinue to
enhance tracheostomy Techniques y making the
procedure safer and more effective For those in need.

11. Reference:

Epstein, S. K, (2005).
Tracheostomy in the intensive care
unit: Epidemiology, indications ,
timing, and outeomes. Respiratory
Care, SOC), 483-470.

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