| The tracheostomy has many advantages. In contrast, a tracheostomy is easily replaced after a tract forms. Speech is possible if the cuff is deflated with the use of a Passy-Muir one-way valve. (1) Mobility is improved, and if the patient can swallow. Suctioning is simple, and the patient is more comfortable. Complications include cuff site injury, complications at the stoma, potential for injury to the trachea-innominate artery, increased risk of ventilator-acquired respiratory tract infections, potential mediastinal infectious complications, and a high mortality rate if the patient is decannulated prior to tract formation. The work of breathing is decreased with a tracheostomy. All of these indications, complications and troubleshooting techniques will be further discussed within. | | | | |
