Morbidity, mortality, and follow-up after pediatric tracheostomy: A national cohort study

Matej Cankar1, Miha Zabret2, Daša Gluvajić2

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška street 2, Ljubljana, 1000, Slovenia.

Insights

Pediatric tracheostomy is linked to frequent complications, but mortality is not tracheostomy-related. Upper airway obstruction and laryngeal stenosis increase the need for pediatric otolaryngology (ENT) follow-up visits.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Tracheostomy Management
  • Airway Reconstruction

Background:

  • Pediatric tracheostomy is a critical intervention for managing complex airway issues.
  • Understanding associated complications and follow-up needs is essential for optimal patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To detail clinical characteristics of pediatric tracheostomy patients.
  • To quantify complications and analyze mortality rates.
  • To identify factors predicting increased need for otorhinolaryngology (ENT) follow-up.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective cohort study at a Slovenian tertiary referral center.
  • Analysis of 43 pediatric patients (<16 years) undergoing tracheostomy (2018-2022).
  • Evaluation of indications, complications, ENT visits, and mortality.

Main Results:

  • Long-term ventilation was the most common indication (58.1%).
  • Complications occurred in 27.9% (early) and 51.2% (late).
  • Upper airway obstruction and post-intubation laryngeal stenosis independently predicted increased ENT follow-up (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric tracheostomy is associated with significant complication rates.
  • Mortality was not directly linked to the tracheostomy itself.
  • Specific indications (upper airway obstruction) and complications (laryngeal stenosis) necessitate more frequent ENT monitoring.
Abstract

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