What is a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening in the neck leading directly to the trachea (the breathing tube). It is maintained open with a hollow tube called a tracheostomy tube.
Why is a tracheostomy performed?
A tracheostomy is usually performed for one of the following reasons:
and to bypass an airway that has become obstructed,
and to remove fluid that has built up in the upper airway, particularly in the throat and trachea (windpipe), or
and to assist with breathing by delivering oxygen to the lungs.
