Tracheostomy

Overview

A tracheostomy is a medical procedure where a small opening is made in the front of the neck into the windpipe (trachea). This opening helps a person breathe when the usual way of breathing is blocked or not working well. A tracheostomy tube is inserted into this opening to keep the airway open. People often refer to it as a trach. This treatment can be temporary or permanent, depending on the patient’s condition.

There is often confusion between tracheostomy by tracheotomy, but in simple terms, tracheotomy is the name of the surgical procedure, while tracheostomy refers to the opening made and its ongoing care.

Why Tracheostomy Treatment is Required?

When a person cannot breathe properly through their nose or mouth due to blockage.

For long-term use of a ventilator or breathing machine.

To clear thick mucus from the lungs if the patient cannot cough it out.

After surgery or trauma to the face, neck or throat.

In conditions such as throat cancer, severe infections or birth defects affecting the airway.

For people with chronic lung diseases who need airway support.

Key Advantages of Tracheostomy Treatment

Makes breathing easier and more effective.

Helps remove secretions directly from the lungs.

Reduces the need for long-term breathing tubes in the mouth or nose.

Improves patient comfort for long-term ventilation.

Allows speaking and eating in many cases, especially with a trach collar or tracheostomy collar.

Offers better airway protection in high-risk patients.

Can improve overall recovery and reduce complications from prolonged ventilation.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Tracheostomy Treatment

Discuss with your doctor about the reason for needing a trach.

Understand what the tracheostomy procedure involves and what to expect.

Ask questions to clear doubts: What is a tracheostomy? or What is a trach?

Let your healthcare provider know about any medical history, allergies or ongoing medications.

Mentally prepare for a change in breathing, speaking, and daily care post-procedure.

In case of planned surgery, avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure as advised.

How Tracheostomy Treatment is Performed?

The procedure is usually done under local or general anesthesia.

A small cut is made in the neck to reach the trachea.

A tracheostomy tube is carefully inserted through this opening.

The tube is secured and connected to a breathing machine or oxygen source if required.

The entire procedure takes about 20 to 45 minutes in most cases.

It can be done in the operation theater or sometimes at the bedside in emergency cases.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before the Procedure:

You will be given anesthesia or sedation.

Vital signs and oxygen levels will be monitored.

2. During the Procedure:

A small incision is made.

A trach tube is inserted.

The site is cleaned and secured with a bandage or neck ties.

3. After the Procedure:

You might need help with speaking and eating for a while.

Nurses will teach you and your caregivers how to clean and maintain the tracheostomy.

You may wear a trach collar for oxygen support.

Recovery time varies depending on the condition.

Risk and Potential Complications

Bleeding or infection at the incision site.

Blockage of the trach tube due to mucus or clots.

Accidental removal or displacement of the tube.

Damage to nearby structures like vocal cords or thyroid.

Difficulty in speaking or swallowing initially.

Scar formation at the site.

Results/Outcomes

Most patients with tracheostomy breathe easier and feel more stable after the treatment.

For many, it helps avoid repeated hospital visits for breathing issues.

Some patients eventually recover and the trach can be removed.

Others may live with it long-term but with improved comfort and breathing.

Quality of life improves with proper care and support.