TRACHEOSTOMY - A RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW OF 281 CASES

Although tracheostomy is an ancient technique, disagreement continues concerning the complication rate associated with the procedure. A retr ospective review of 281 consecutive tracheostomies was undertaken to e valuate the current risks of tracheostomy in tertiary care teaching ho spitals. In addition, we sought to identify factors associated with in creased morbidity. The intraoperative and postoperative complications were analyzed regarding indication and comorbidity factors. The majori ty of cases (56%) were performed on ICU patients. The total complicati on rate was 24%. A statistically significant increased risk of complic ations was found both in emergency situations and in ICU patients. Del aying tracheostomy was associated with prolongation of ICU stay. Despi te the relatively large number of patients studied, there were no deat hs.