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Updated: May 28, 2026
04:43
Endotracheal Intubation via Tracheotomy and Subsequent Thoracotomy in Rats for Non-Survival Applications
Published on: March 15, 2024
Our experience with 171 open tracheostomies
Tirbod Fattahi1, Luis Vega, Rui Fernandes
1Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA. Tirbod.Fattahi@Jax.Ufl.edu
Summary
Open tracheostomy is a valuable surgical technique. This study of 171 procedures found a low complication rate of 4.1%, highlighting its safety when performed correctly.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Procedures
- Otolaryngology
- Head and Neck Surgery
Background:
- Tracheotomy, a long-established surgical intervention, has diverse indications.
- Reported operative complication rates for tracheostomies vary widely, ranging from 5% to 40%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the experience with 171 open tracheostomies performed at a major academic medical center.
- To analyze the incidence of complications associated with open tracheostomy and its correlation with specific indications.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of patient records for open tracheostomies performed between July 1, 2007, and December 31, 2010.
- Data collected included procedure indication, patient demographics, tracheostomy tube details, and postoperative complications.
- Statistical analysis was conducted to determine complication rates and trends.
Main Results:
- The median age of patients undergoing tracheostomy was 36 years (range: 17-89).
- Over half (51%) of the tracheostomies were performed in conjunction with head and neck oncologic procedures.
- The overall complication rate was 4.1%, with 7 out of 171 patients experiencing complications.
Conclusions:
- Open tracheostomy remains a highly useful surgical procedure.
- Appropriate surgical technique is associated with a low incidence of postoperative complications.
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Required Equipment
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