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The tracheostomy is a temporary opening in the wind pipe (trachea) to allow easier breathing, ventilation or access to breathing machines (ventilators). It is usually done in a planned fashion - especially after a patient has been found to require long-term ventilator support. Rarely, it is done as an emergency to provide an airway in trauma, burns and acute upper airway obstructions. This is done with an incision in the front of the neck at its base. It is safe and done under very controlled conditions. The length of time the tracheostomy remains in place depends on the underlying disease. Although a simply done operation, there are frequent minor complications with this unnatural airway. |
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