Common Medical Conditions that May Necessitate a Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy may be necessary not only in emergency cases but also for various medical conditions. These conditions include throat cancer, paralysis, neurological disorders that hinder the effective clearing of bronchial secretions, and other ailments that obstruct normal respiration. Additionally, a tracheostomy may be performed by a surgeon prior to head or neck surgery to aid in breathing throughout the recovery process.
The Different Types of Tracheostomy Procedures
When it comes to tracheostomy procedures, there are two main types: open surgical and percutaneous dilatational (PDT). Although the terms tracheostomy and tracheotomy are often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that the former refers to the procedure itself, while the latter specifically pertains to the surgical incision made in the trachea.
During an open surgical tracheotomy, a surgical hole is created in the trachea to allow for the placement of a tracheal tube. On the other hand, percutaneous dilatational tracheotomy (PDT) involves a different approach, utilizing a dilation technique to create the necessary opening.