Procedure Type
SurgicalProcedure Duration
30 min - 1 hrsHospital Stay (Days)
1 - 5 DaysA tracheostomy is a surgical procedure in which a hole is created in the front of the neck to open a direct airway through the windpipe (trachea). This opening, called a tracheostoma, allows air to bypass an obstructed upper airway or to provide a long-term ventilation solution in patients who need assistance breathing. A tube is inserted into the tracheostoma to keep it open and enable air to flow in and out of the lungs.
A tracheostomy is performed for several medical reasons, most commonly when there is an obstruction in the upper airway, a need for prolonged mechanical ventilation, or severe trauma to the face or neck. It may also be done in cases of neurological conditions that impair breathing, such as spinal cord injuries or stroke, or in critically ill patients who are unable to breathe on their own for extended periods.
The procedure is usually performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia, though in emergencies it can be done under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the neck and exposes the trachea. A small opening is then made between the cartilage rings of the trachea, and a tracheostomy tube is inserted through this opening into the windpipe. The tube is then secured in place and connected to a breathing machine or allowed to function as an open airway.
After the surgery, patients are monitored closely to ensure that the airway is functioning properly and that there are no complications. The tube may be connected to a ventilator if the patient cannot breathe independently. Over time, with proper care and depending on the underlying condition, patients may be able to speak, eat, and even breathe on their own through the tracheostomy tube. In some cases, the tube is removed once it is no longer needed, and the hole is allowed to heal naturally.
PRINCIPAL DIRECTOR ENT
MBBS, MS - ENT, DNB - Otorhinolaryngology ENT/ Otorhinolaryngologist
A tracheostomy provides a secure and stable airway, improves comfort in patients requiring long-term ventilation, and makes it easier to remove mucus from the lungs. It can reduce the need for sedation in ventilated patients and may improve the ability to speak and swallow over time with proper care and training.
Like any surgical procedure, tracheostomy carries risks. These may include bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and scarring. Long-term complications can include tracheal narrowing, formation of granulation tissue, or accidental tube dislodgment. However, with proper care and regular follow-up, many of these complications can be managed or prevented.
Yes, many patients can speak and eat with a tracheostomy, depending on their overall condition and the type of tube used. Speaking may require a special speaking valve that allows air to pass through the vocal cords. Eating is generally possible once the patient is stable and has been evaluated by a speech and swallowing specialist to ensure safety.
The duration of a tracheostomy depends on the underlying cause. Some patients require it temporarily until their breathing or condition improves, while others may need it for long-term or even permanent use. If the tube is no longer needed, it can be removed, and the opening typically heals on its own within a few days to weeks.
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Chennai, India
Mumbai, India
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