Topographic variations in anatomical structures of the anterior neck of children - An ultrasonographic study

Objective. Tracheostomies in children are frequently used for temporary air way support during surgical procedures. In pediatric patients with congenit al craniofacial malformations, preoperative assessment of the delicate anat omy of the airway is necessary. The purpose of this study was to assess the ultrasonographic anatomy of the anterior neck with regard to the performan ce of tracheostomy. Study design. Ultrasonographic investigation was done in 50 pediatric patie nts (age range, 6 to 15 years) to analyze the relationships among the anato mical structures that are of practical interest with respect to tracheostom y. Results. The data reveal that information concerning variations in anatomic al structures tying in the immediate vicinity of. the tracheostomy site was readily obtainable with the techniques used. Conclusions. In pediatric patients requiring tracheostomy for surgical trea tment of severe congenital craniofacial malformations, preoperative ultraso nography may be used to diagnose individual anatomical variations at the tr acheostomy site.