Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 24, 2026

Endotracheal Intubation via Tracheotomy and Subsequent Thoracotomy in Rats for Non-Survival Applications
04:43

Endotracheal Intubation via Tracheotomy and Subsequent Thoracotomy in Rats for Non-Survival Applications

Published on: March 15, 2024

1.6K

Duration of tracheostomy dependence and development of tracheocutaneous fistula in children

Tu-Anh Ha1, Meha Goyal1, Julina Ongkasuwan1,2

  • 1Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, U.S.A.

The Laryngoscope
|August 13, 2017
PubMed

Insights

The risk of developing a tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) significantly increases in children with tracheostomy dependence exceeding 24 months. This study highlights the importance of decannulation timing in pediatric tracheostomy care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Surgical Complications
  • Respiratory Management

Background:

  • Tracheostomy is a common procedure in pediatric care.
  • Tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) is a potential complication following tracheostomy.
  • Understanding risk factors for TCF is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between tracheostomy dependence duration and the development of TCF in children.
  • To quantify the increased risk of TCF with prolonged tracheostomy use.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients who underwent tracheotomy and subsequent decannulation.
  • Analysis of 164 patients' records from 2002-2011.
  • Evaluation of tracheostomy duration and TCF development.

Main Results:

  • A significant correlation was found between longer tracheostomy dependence and TCF development (P = 0.0003).
  • Children with tracheostomy dependence >24 months had a 2.5-fold increased risk of TCF (RR = 2.5217, P < 0.005).
  • Mean dependence time was 33.1 months for TCF patients vs. 23.4 months for non-TCF patients; 57.3% developed TCF.

Conclusions:

  • The duration of tracheostomy dependence is a significant risk factor for TCF in children.
  • Longer tracheostomy dependence increases the likelihood of developing a tracheocutaneous fistula.
  • This study provides evidence for optimizing decannulation strategies to minimize TCF risk.
Abstract

Keywords:
Pediatric tracheostomydecannulationtracheocutaneous fistulatracheotomy

More Related Videos

Heterotopic and Orthotopic Tracheal Transplantation in Mice used as Models to Study the Development of Obliterative Airway Disease09:10

Heterotopic and Orthotopic Tracheal Transplantation in Mice used as Models to Study the Development of Obliterative Airway Disease

Published on: January 20, 2010

14.4K
Guidelines for Elective Pediatric Fiberoptic Intubation11:19

Guidelines for Elective Pediatric Fiberoptic Intubation

Published on: January 17, 2011

18.7K

Related Concept Videos

Tracheostomy Decannulation01:21

Tracheostomy Decannulation

Tracheostomy decannulation is a significant milestone in the liberation of mechanically ventilated patients. Despite its importance, there is no universally accepted protocol for this procedure. This demands an evidence-based, individualized approach.
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
1.8K
Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes01:28

Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes

A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening into the trachea, typically at the second or third cartilaginous ring level. This opening allows the insertion of a tracheostomy tube, which can replace an endotracheal tube, provide mechanical ventilation, bypass an upper airway obstruction, or remove accumulated tracheobronchial secretions.
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...
4.0K
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece01:23

Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece

Oxygen delivery is critical in clinical care, especially for patients with respiratory disorders or those undergoing surgical procedures. Various systems, such as tracheostomy and the T-piece, deliver oxygen to the lungs, ensuring adequate arterial oxygenation.
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
7.0K
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps01:16

Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps

A tracheostomy is a surgical technique that involves making an incision in the neck to provide access to the trachea. It is frequently used in medical conditions such as airway obstruction and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Effective nursing management is crucial for the long-term success of a tracheostomy.
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
1.5K
Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure01:25

Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure

Tracheostomy care is an essential nursing skill that involves cleaning and maintaining a tracheostomy tube to prevent infection and other complications. Here's a step-by-step guide explaining each procedure with its rationale. Note that disposable gloves are to be worn at all times and changed as often as needed to maintain a sterile work environment, and to protect both patient and healthcare worker.
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask...
1.9K
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen01:16

Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen

Oxygen therapy is a pivotal aspect of medical care, particularly for patients with respiratory ailments. Two prominent oxygen-delivering systems include the Venturi mask and the transtracheal oxygen catheter.
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
2.7K