If you are like most people, you probably have never heard of tracheostomy before. It is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the trachea (windpipe) to allow air and food to enter the lungs. This article will discuss six things that you may not know about tracheostomy.
What Is Tracheostomy?
This procedure is also known as a tracheotomy. It requires a lot of medical supplies that include a scalpel, tracheal dilators, and a tracheostomy tube. This procedure is done under general anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes to complete. The surgeon will make a small incision in the neck just above the collarbone. Through this opening, they will insert a tracheal dilator to widen the trachea. Next, the tracheostomy tube is inserted and connected to a suction device. This will help remove any secretions that may build up in the throat.
Tracheostomies are usually performed in an emergency situation when someone is having trouble breathing. However, there are some people who require this procedure on a long-term basis due to certain medical conditions such as COPD or sleep apnea.
This is considered the best option when all other treatments have failed. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a condition that requires a tracheostomy, it is important to know that this is a common and safe procedure. There are many resources available to help you through this process.
How Dangerous Is It?
This process can be dangerous because it involves making an incision in the neck area, which is a very sensitive part of the body. If something goes wrong during the surgery, it could result in serious injury or even death. That’s why it’s important to only have this procedure done by a qualified medical professional.
Another risk associated with a tracheostomy is that it can lead to infection. This is because the incision made in the neck allows bacteria to enter the body and cause an infection. Infections can be very dangerous, especially if they spread to other parts of the body.
However, a precise surgeon will make sure that the incision is made in a way that minimizes the risk of infection. In addition, patients will be given antibiotics to help prevent infection.
Surgery
The process of making a tracheostomy involves making a cut on the front of the neck and opening up a direct airway to the windpipe (trachea). A tracheostomy tube is then inserted through this hole to keep the airway open. This surgery is usually performed in an operating room under general anesthesia.
Recovery from surgery typically takes place in the hospital. Most people stay in the hospital for about a week after surgery. During this time, you will be closely monitored by your medical team. You will likely have a drain placed under your skin to help remove any excess fluid from the surgical site. Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will need to care for your tracheostomy at home.
Other Options
There are a few alternative treatment options that can be effective in some situations. These are the following:
- Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP): This procedure involves the use of a laser to remove tissue in the back of the throat.
- Radiofrequency ablation: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radio waves to destroy tissue in the back of the throat.
- palatal implants: These are small devices that are placed in the palate to help keep it from collapsing.
If you have been considering a tracheostomy, talk to your doctor about these other options. There may be a less invasive option that can be just as effective for you.
Recovery
The process of recovery after a tracheostomy is different for everyone. Some people may experience a quick recovery while others may have a more difficult time. There are a few things that you can do to help make the recovery process go more smoothly.
You need to get plenty of rest because it is important for your body to heal properly. Your doctor will also tell you to eat healthily. Nutritious foods will help your body to recover more quickly. Drinking plenty of fluids is another must during recovery. Having lots of them will help to prevent dehydration and will also thin out mucus secretions.
It’s essential that you take your medications as prescribed. This will help to reduce swelling and pain. You should consider doing some exercises. Getting some physical activity will help to keep your lungs and airways clear.
Aftercare
The aftercare for a tracheostomy is critical to the success of the surgery and the health of the patient. A nurse or doctor will usually be on call 24/ hours after the surgery to answer any questions that may arise. The patient will be asked to not drink or eat anything for at least six hours after the surgery.
It is important to keep the incision clean and dry. The best way to do this is by using a sterile cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide and gently cleaning around the outside of the stoma.
Tracheostomy may seem like a risky and dangerous operation, but if your surgeon is experienced it will be a breeze. The process is pretty complex and requires steady hands, but there are a couple of alternatives to it. Recovery takes a long time and you need to do your best to stay good aftercare is also very important so that you heal properly!
Nina Burkovskaya is a senior content writer at Raisetwice since 2020. She has 12 years of yoga experience and 5 years experience of motivational coaching. On a free time loves to read biographies of the famous people and go for a walk with her dog.