Tracheostomy during novel corona virus pandemic

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Critical Care
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• 6% of COVID-19 patients experience severe respiratory failure requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation.
• Early tracheostomy is crucial for preventing post-intubation upper airway stenosis.
• Aerosol-generating surgical procedures, including tracheostomy, pose contamination risks to medical staff during pandemics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise traditional tracheostomy indications in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To provide recommendations for tracheostomy procedures during the pandemic.
• To minimize risks to healthcare professionals while managing severe respiratory failure.

Main Methods:

• Review of international experiences and guidelines related to tracheostomy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Analysis of the risks associated with aerosol-generating procedures in surgical interventions.
• Development of revised recommendations for tracheostomy indications.

Main Results:

• Traditional tracheostomy indications require re-evaluation due to pandemic-related risks.
• Modified approaches to tracheostomy are necessary to balance patient care and staff safety.
• International experiences inform updated best practices for tracheostomy during viral pandemics.

Conclusions:

• Revised tracheostomy indications are essential for managing patients with severe respiratory failure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Implementing updated protocols can mitigate the risk of healthcare worker contamination.
• Early tracheostomy remains a vital intervention when indicated, with necessary adaptations for safety.