Tracheostomy

A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the neck into the trachea (windpipe) to help a person breathe. It may be temporary or permanent and is performed for conditions such as airway obstruction, long-term ventilator support, or severe head and neck trauma.

• Pre-surgical evaluation, including blood tests and imaging, may be performed.
• Follow fasting instructions before surgery.
• Inform your provider about all medications and medical conditions.

You will receive anesthesia. A small incision is made in the neck, and a tracheostomy tube is inserted into the trachea. The tube allows air to flow directly into the lungs. Hospital stay varies depending on your condition.

• Bleeding, infection, or damage to nearby structures.
• Air leaks under the skin or around the tracheostomy site.
• Blockage of the tube from mucus or secretions.

Your medical team will teach you how to care for the tracheostomy tube. Follow-up visits monitor healing and function. In some cases, the tracheostomy may be closed once normal breathing is restored.