Trach Procedures

Tracheotomy

A procedure that creates access to the trachea via a neck incision.

Tracheostomy

The opening created by a tracheotomy procedure.

Laryngectomy

Surgical removal of the larynx, separating it from the mouth and nose.

Cricothyrotomy

An emergency incision through the cricothyroid membrane to establish a patent airway.

Indications for tracheostomy

Projected prolonged need for an artificial airway, poor ETT tolerance, patient condition factors, risk comparison between ETT and trach.

False passage

Misplacement of the trach tube outside the trachea.

Benefits of bedside trach procedures

Less invasive, no tissue dissection, performed in ICU, local anesthesia only, cost-effective, avoids transport risks, smaller scar, less bleeding/infection.

Required equipment for PDT

Flexible bronchoscope, Percutaneous Dilatation Kit, Tracheostomy tubes, BVM, suction, intubation gear.

Contraindications for PDT

Inability to extend neck, neck abnormalities, burns or infections at site, coagulopathy, pediatric patients, hemodynamic instability.

Potential tracheostomy complications

Bleeding, accidental decannulation, stomal infection.

Accidental decannulation action

Treat as a medical emergency — immediate action required to secure the airway.