Tracheostomy

Tracheostomy causes

Doctors may perform a tracheostomy for:

• Blocked airway from trauma, swelling, or tumors
• Long-term use of a breathing machine (ventilator)
• Serious lung disease or breathing problems
• Problems clearing mucus or secretions
• Neck or throat surgery that affects the airway

Tracheostomy risk factors

You might be more likely to need a tracheostomy if you:

• Have severe lung disease like COPD
• Have a tumor or injury in your throat or neck
• Can’t breathe well without a machine
• Have weak muscles for coughing or clearing the airway
• Are having surgery on your airway

Tracheostomy symptoms

You may need a tracheostomy if you have:

• Trouble breathing through your mouth or nose
• Noisy or blocked breathing
• Swelling in the neck or face
• Trouble clearing mucus or saliva
• Need for long-term breathing support

Tracheostomy diagnosis

Doctors may use the following to decide if you need a tracheostomy:

• Breathing tests and blood oxygen levels
• CT scans or X-rays of the chest and neck
• Physical exam and medical history
• How long you’ve needed a ventilator

Tracheostomy treatment

The procedure includes:

• Making a small opening in the front of the neck into the windpipe
• Inserting a tube to help with breathing
• Connecting the tube to a ventilator if needed
• Daily care of the tube and skin around it
• Some people need the tube for a short time, others for life
• In some cases, the tube can be removed when the person improves

When to seek care

Call your doctor or go to the ER if:

• You or someone else is having trouble breathing
• There’s swelling, bleeding, or pain in the neck
• A tracheostomy tube becomes blocked or dislodged
• There are signs of infection like redness, pus, or fever