Tracheotomy

What is a Tracheotomy?

A tracheotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the front of the patient's neck and a breathing tube is inserted through a hole into the trachea.

Why is it done?

A tracheostomy is usually done for one of several reasons - to bypass an obstructed upper airway (an object obstructing the upper airway will prevent oxygen from the mouth to reach the lungs), to clean and remove secretions from the airway, or for prolonged mechanical breathing if the patient is unable to.