Tracheostomy

About

A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) through the skin on the neck and into the windpipe (trachea). The stoma creates a passageway into the child's windpipe, and the child breathes through a tracheostomy tube placed in the stoma.

Tracheostomy (trach) tubes are made of synthetic materials or metal. Factors that affect tube selection include the type of breathing problem, the child's age and the size of the airway. Trach tubes come in many sizes with different features and functions. Synthetic tubes are generally made of plastic or silicone. The medical team will determine what special features the tube needs that are most appropriate for the child's condition.

Common reasons for a tracheostomy include blockage or narrowing of the airway, difficulty coughing up and clearing lung secretions, and dependence on a ventilator to assist with breathing. After surgery, children stay in the hospital for observation and medical follow-up. The length of stay depends on the child's condition. Patients may experience mild discomfort and pain for a few days. Tracheostomy tubes must be changed periodically to keep them clean.

Tracheostomy changes the way a child breathes, speaks and eats. The structure of the voice box and windpipe significantly affects a child's speaking ability. A speech therapist can help a child restore the best voice quality possible. Children with tracheostomies also are more likely than most children to catch respiratory illnesses like cold, flu and pneumonia.