What is a tracheostomy?

The basics of a tracheostomy

A tracheotomy is a procedure which consists of creating an opening in the neck for direct access to the windpipe (trachea).

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What is a Tracheostomy?

The basics to get started

A tracheotomy is a procedure which consists of creating an opening in the neck for direct access to the windpipe (trachea). The opening is called a tracheostomy or sometimes a tracheostoma. There are many potential reasons for the purpose of a tracheostomy, including easier breathing and secretion management. A tracheostomy can be either temporary, 2-4 weeks, or more long-term, months – years, or in some cases permanent, depending on the needs and reason for having it.

A TRACHEOSTOMY MAY BE NEEDED IF SOMEONE:

• Has an obstruction in their upper airway (nose, mouth or throat).
• Has difficulty swallowing.
• Has trouble breathing due to injury, swelling or lung conditions.
• Undergoes airway reconstruction following surgery on their larynx (voice box) or pharynx (throat).
• Needs mechanical ventilation (breathing machine).

A tracheostomy tube is inserted into the tracheostoma to keep it open. As a result of the tracheostomy, you will breathe through a tracheostomy tube while breathing through your nose and mouth will either be reduced or completely bypassed.

Breathing

Lung health

Impact on lung health

Breathing through a tracheostoma means breathing in dry, cold and unfiltered air. This will irritate the lining of the airways and lungs, and may result in more coughing, mucus production, and a greater risk for infection.

Using a Heat & Moisture Exchanger (HME) humidifies and moisturizes the air you inhale, and so may help with the function of both your airways and lungs.

Lung health

Blog

Life with a tracheostomy

Mrs. Edeltraud Stegemann is a 75-year-old from Bad Vilbel in Germany. She has been tracheotomized twice, survived a cardiac arrest and today leads a full life with a tracheostomy. We were privileged to sit down and interview Mrs. Stegemann to gain some insight into her extraordinary experience.

Impact on speech

Since exhaled air will no longer move through your vocal cords your voice will be affected. The type of tracheostomy tube you have, as well as the reason for your tracheostomy, will dictate how speaking will be affected. Some people may be able to speak after a tracheostomy using equipment and others may not; however, there are options available to help you communicate again – your healthcare professional will work with you to find the best option for you.

Speaking

Blog

Meet Dorenda

In 2006, Dorenda underwent surgery for thyroid cancer. Read her story.

Closing the tracheostoma

If the tracheostomy is no longer necessary, the healthcare provider can remove the tracheostomy tube. The hole often closes on its own. But if it doesn’t, a surgeon will close it up.

Pediatric

Respiratory conditions

Tracheostomized children have a high risk of respiratory infections. This is due to the naturally protective oral and nasal passages being bypassed, allowing microorganisms into the lower airways more easily.