PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Deutsch, Ellen S
TI  - Tracheostomy: Pediatric Considerations
DP  - 2010 Aug 01
TA  - Respiratory Care
PG  - 1082--1090
VI  - 55
IP  - 8
4099  - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/55/8/1082.short
4100  - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/55/8/1082.full
AB  - Pediatric patients for whom tracheotomy is a consideration have different anatomy, medical conditions, and prognoses than adults; even the tracheotomy tubes are different. Indications for pediatric tracheotomy generally include bypassing airway obstruction, providing access for prolonged mechanical ventilation, and facilitating tracheobronchial toilet. Subglottic stenosis is an important indication for tracheotomy in children; its etiology, prevention, and alternative options for management are presented. Discussion includes the benefits, risks, impact on families, techniques for tracheotomy tube changes, and alternatives to tracheotomy, with illustrative photographs and diagrams.