Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 8, 2025

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
Update on Pediatric Tracheostomy: Indications, Technique, Education, and Decannulation
Colin Fuller1,2, Andre' M Wineland1,2, Gresham T Richter1,2
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 1 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR 72202 USA.
Pediatric tracheostomy requires careful evaluation, education, and care. While tracheostomy-specific complications are rare, standardizing decannulation protocols for children is crucial for safe, long-term airway management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Respiratory Medicine
- Critical Care
Background:
- Pediatric tracheostomy is a complex procedure requiring comprehensive pre-operative assessment.
- Effective family education and multidisciplinary post-operative care are essential for successful outcomes.
- The primary goals include securing a safe airway, optimizing ventilation, and facilitating patient discharge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated review on pediatric tracheostomy care.
- To focus on timing, surgical techniques, complication management, and decannulation strategies.
- To emphasize a longitudinal approach to managing pediatric tracheostomies.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on pediatric tracheostomy.
- Analysis of current practices in tertiary pediatric hospitals.
- Discussion of global initiatives to optimize tracheostomy care.
Main Results:
- Pediatric tracheostomy occurs in about 0.2% of tertiary pediatric hospital inpatient stays.
- Mortality in children with tracheostomies is 10-20% due to comorbidities; tracheostomy-specific mortality is rare.
- Global initiatives aim to improve decision-making, reduce costs, shorten intensive care stays, and prevent wound complications.
Conclusions:
- Recent literature offers guidance for safe, uncomplicated, long-term pediatric tracheostomy care.
- Further research is necessary to standardize decannulation protocols in children.
- The safest path to decannulation is patient and provider dependent.
Related Concept Videos
Tracheostomy Decannulation
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...
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...
Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask...
Tracheostomy Suctioning II: Procedure
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
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...

