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Updated: Jan 22, 2026
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ALS - Motor Neuron Disease: Mechanism and Development of New Therapies
Published on: July 29, 2007
10.0K
Tracheostomy in motor neurone disease
Martin R Turner1, Christina Faull2, Christopher J McDermott3
1Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK martin.turner@ndcn.ox.ac.uk.
Practical Neurology
|July 6, 2019
Summary
Tracheostomy ventilation can improve survival and quality of life for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (motor neurone disease). This article discusses its prevalence, benefits, and practical implementation, including end-of-life care discussions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Palliative Care
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neurone disease (MND), causes progressive respiratory insufficiency.
- Tracheostomy-associated ventilation is a complex treatment option for advanced ALS.
- Decisions regarding invasive ventilation present significant challenges for patients and clinicians.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current prevalence of tracheostomy in MND patients.
- To evaluate the evidence supporting tracheostomy ventilation for survival and quality of life in MND.
- To outline practical considerations and ethical dimensions of implementing tracheostomy ventilation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on tracheostomy use in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
- Analysis of evidence regarding survival benefits.
- Discussion of quality of life implications.
- Exploration of practical and ethical aspects of ventilatory support.
Main Results:
- Tracheostomy ventilation is an option for respiratory insufficiency in MND.
- Evidence suggests potential benefits for both survival and quality of life.
- Implementation involves complex practical, ethical, and economic considerations.
Conclusions:
- Neurologists must openly discuss tracheostomy ventilation with MND patients.
- A framework for decision-making, including therapy withdrawal, is essential.
- Informed patient choice is paramount in managing advanced MND.
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