How is an emergency tracheotomy done?

Emergency Tracheotomy

An emergency tracheotomy is a surgical procedure performed to create an opening in the windpipe (trachea) to establish an airway. It is typically performed when a person is unable to breathe due to an obstruction in the upper airway.

Procedure:

1. Preparation:

- The patient is placed in a supine position with the neck slightly extended.

- The area around the neck is prepped with antiseptic solution and draped.

2. Incision:

- A vertical incision is made in the midline of the neck, just below the cricoid cartilage.

3. Dissection:

- The skin, subcutaneous tissue, and platysma muscle are carefully dissected to expose the underlying strap muscles.

4. Tracheal Identification:

- The strap muscles are retracted to expose the trachea. The trachea is identified by its characteristic cartilaginous rings and pulsation.

5. Incision into the Trachea:

- A small transverse incision is made through the tracheal rings, usually between the second and third tracheal rings.

6. Insertion of Tracheostomy Tube:

- A tracheostomy tube is inserted through the incision into the trachea. The tube is secured in place with sutures and an inflatable cuff.

7. Confirmation of Placement:

- The placement of the tracheostomy tube is confirmed by listening to the breath sounds and ensuring proper airflow through the tube.

Post-Procedure Care:

- The patient is closely monitored after the tracheotomy to ensure proper respiratory function and prevent complications.

- The tracheostomy tube is regularly suctioned to remove secretions and maintain airway patency.

- The patient may require mechanical ventilation until they can breathe spontaneously.

- Depending on the underlying condition, the tracheostomy tube may be temporary or permanent.

Emergency tracheotomy is a time-sensitive procedure performed to establish an airway in life-threatening situations when conventional methods of airway management are ineffective or not feasible. It requires proper training and should only be performed by qualified medical professionals.