TY - JOUR T1 - Tracheostomy: Pediatric Considerations JF - Respiratory Care SP - 1082 LP - 1090 VL - 55 IS - 8 AU - Ellen S Deutsch Y1 - 2010/08/01 UR - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/55/8/1082.abstract N2 - 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. ER -