Surgery
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy creates an opening in the front of the neck into the windpipe to help someone breathe, often for the longer term.
Quick answer
Tracheostomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A tracheostomy is an opening made through the neck into the trachea (windpipe), with a tube placed to keep it open. Air passes in and out through this tube instead of, or as well as, the nose and mouth.
- Why it is done: It is used when someone needs help breathing for a longer time, has a blocked upper airway, needs long-term ventilator support, or requires help clearing secretions from the lungs.
- What happens: It is done in an operating theatre or intensive care, under general or local anaesthetic, by making an opening in the windpipe and inserting the tube.
What it is
A tracheostomy is an opening made through the neck into the trachea (windpipe), with a tube placed to keep it open. Air passes in and out through this tube instead of, or as well as, the nose and mouth.
Why it is done
It is used when someone needs help breathing for a longer time, has a blocked upper airway, needs long-term ventilator support, or requires help clearing secretions from the lungs.
What happens
It is done in an operating theatre or intensive care, under general or local anaesthetic, by making an opening in the windpipe and inserting the tube. It can also be done at the bedside using a needle technique.
Recovery
Care includes keeping the tube clean and clear, and learning new ways to communicate, as speaking is affected at first. Many tracheostomies are temporary and removed once no longer needed, with the opening healing over.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection, tube blockage or displacement, and scarring. Speaking and swallowing are affected and need support. Specialist nursing care is important to prevent complications.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Tracheostomy: frequently asked questions
Will I be able to speak with a tracheostomy?
Speaking is affected at first because air bypasses the voice box, but many people can learn to talk again using special valves or by covering the tube, with help from speech and language therapists.
Is a tracheostomy permanent?
Often it is temporary and removed once breathing recovers, with the opening closing on its own. Some people need it long term, depending on the underlying condition.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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