What is a tracheotomy?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a definition and explanation of a tracheotomy, a medical procedure involving an incision in the trachea to aid breathing.
Answer
A tracheotomy is a surgical opening in the neck into the trachea to aid breathing.
A tracheotomy, also known as a tracheostomy, is a surgical procedure where an opening is created through the neck and into the trachea (windpipe). This procedure allows air to enter the lungs and provides a means to remove secretions from the airways.
Answer for screen readers
A tracheotomy, also known as a tracheostomy, is a surgical procedure where an opening is created through the neck and into the trachea (windpipe). This procedure allows air to enter the lungs and provides a means to remove secretions from the airways.
More Information
Tracheotomies are often performed in emergency situations to bypass an obstructed upper airway, to clean and remove secretions from the airway, or to deliver oxygen to the lungs.
Tips
Confusing a tracheotomy with an intubation procedure, which involves a tube through the mouth or nose into the trachea; tracheotomy involves a direct neck incision.
Sources
- Tracheostomy - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
- Tracheostomy - Cleveland Clinic - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Tracheostomy - NHS - nhs.uk
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