Tracheostomy

Overview

For children who need tracheostomy treatment, Mayo Clinic provides specialized, compassionate medical care in a comfortable, caring environment. Mayo's team of medical professionals is sensitive to the fact that tracheostomy surgery and placement is a stressful and life-changing event for children and parents. Experienced doctors and nurses teach parents and other caregivers about tracheostomy tube management to help them provide aftercare that maintains the best possible quality of life and routine for the child at home.

Mayo Clinic Pediatric Otolaryngology's (ear, nose and throat) team of providers and clinic staff work proactively and closely with the patient and parents to develop strong, lasting relationships. The size of the practice allows doctors and other staff to address questions thoroughly on an individual, personal level, and to be attentive to the special needs of pediatric patients and their families.

Read more about tracheostomy at MayoClinic.com.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota
• Treatment of Children & Adolescents

Evaluation
Mayo Clinic performs a comprehensive evaluation prior to tracheostomy surgery, which can include collaboration among specialists in Pediatrics, Pediatric Otolaryngology, Speech Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Pulmonary Medicine, and Radiology. The medical team works together to determine the most appropriate treatment option to improve breathing for each child.

Doctors view and identify all narrowed sites in the airway during the evaluation, using tiny telescopes with cameras (fiberoptic and rigid laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy) and X-ray images of the neck. The surgeon evaluates the child's condition and unique needs before determining which type of tracheostomy tube can provide the optimal result.