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Late outcome from percutaneous tracheostomy using the Portex kit.
R C Leonard1, R H Lewis, B Singh
1Department of Intensive Care, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia. richard_leonard@yahoo.com
Chest
|April 20, 1999
Summary
Late outcomes after percutaneous tracheostomy using the Portex kit were assessed. Most patients experienced minor voice changes, with only one case of tracheal stenosis identified, indicating a favorable safety profile.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Percutaneous tracheostomy is a common procedure in intensive care units.
- Assessing long-term complications is crucial for patient safety and procedural refinement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the late outcomes and potential complications of percutaneous tracheostomy performed with the Portex kit.
- To identify the incidence of symptoms and structural changes post-procedure.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational cohort study was conducted with 49 patients who survived 6 months post-percutaneous tracheostomy.
- Patients completed symptom questionnaires, and a subset underwent pulmonary function tests and fiberoptic laryngotracheoscopy.
Main Results:
- The most frequent symptom reported was a minor voice change.
- One patient developed symptomatic tracheal stenosis requiring treatment; another had a tethered scar.
- Pulmonary function tests and tracheoscopy showed no evidence of upper airway obstruction or tracheal stenosis.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous tracheostomy with the Portex kit demonstrates a low incidence of late complications, with tracheal stenosis occurring in only one patient.
- Detailed follow-up revealed minimal late adverse events, suggesting good long-term safety.