Health encyclopaedia

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Tracheostomy

Tracheostomy is an operation in which an artificial opening is made in the front of the windpipe (trachea) through the skin of the neck. A tube is inserted, through which breathing may continue until the normal airway can be restored.

Tracheostomy has saved many lives and may be carried out as an emergency when life is threatened by obstruction to the airway. It is also commonly performed on people who can't breath for themselves. In this case breathing can be maintained artificially by an air pump.

A permanent tracheostomy is usually necessary after the voice box (larynx) has been removed surgically.

• Why is it necessary?
• When should it be done?
• How is it performed?

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