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Abstract
Tracheotomy is a surgical procedure in which a tracheocutaneous airway is created in the anterior neck. It is routinely done in critically ill patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilatory support or in emergency cases of upper airways obstruction. Both open surgical tracheostomy and percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy are methods used to perform tracheostomy in select individuals. The best technique for performing tracheostomy remains a matter of debate. Each method has his advantages and disadvantages. The determining factors in deciding whether to use an open surgical or percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in a particular situation depends on patient anatomical and physiological factors and as well on surgeon experiences and prefers. The basic technique and variations are described.
