| Initial complications may include inadequate tape tension to support the tube, air entry through the tube, “surgical emphysema,” or air in the subcutaneous tissue, or malpositioning. If the child coughs and gags, endoscopy should be done by the surgeon in order to ensure good placement. A chest x-ray is done after the procedure to confirm the placement of the tube and to be certain the child has not sustained a pneumothorax or hemothorax. In order to prevent tube blockage after initial tracheostomy, the tube should be suctioned every 30 minutes for 12 to 24 hours and regularly afterwards until the tube is changed. (3) | | | | |
