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Long-term outcome after percutaneous dilational tracheostomy. Endoscopic and spirometry findings
R C Law1, A S Carney, A R Manara
1Intensive Care Unit, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, UK.
Anaesthesia
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Percutaneous dilational tracheostomy has good long-term outcomes. Most patients remain asymptomatic, though some develop tracheal stenosis, indicating potential for technique refinement.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sciences
- Surgical Procedures
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Percutaneous dilational tracheostomy (PDT) is a common procedure.
- Long-term anatomical and functional consequences of PDT require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term anatomical and functional outcomes of PDT.
- To compare PDT outcomes with conventional surgical tracheostomy.
Main Methods:
- Laryngotracheoscopy and spirometry were used to evaluate 41 patients.
- Patients were studied at least 6 months after tracheal decannulation.
Main Results:
- Four out of 41 patients (approximately 10%) had significant tracheal stenosis.
- Two of these patients also showed spirometric evidence of obstruction.
- Only one patient reported symptoms requiring scar revision.
Conclusions:
- Long-term outcomes of PDT are comparable to conventional surgical tracheostomy.
- PDT is generally safe with minimal symptomatic complications.
- Further improvements in PDT techniques, like endoscopic guidance, may enhance outcomes.