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Pediatric tracheostomy
What is a pediatric tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy (tray·kee·aa·stuh·mee) is a surgical procedure that involves creating a hole in the patient's neck, called a stoma, and trachea (windpipe) to help the patient breathe.
A tracheostomy tube, or trach, is usually placed through this opening to provide an airway and to remove secretions from the lungs.
The length of time a patient needs their trach varies from child to child, depending on their condition. Some trachs are only needed short term, while others are more long term.
What can I expect after the pediatric tracheostomy procedure?
While your child is recovering from the surgery and the stoma is healing, your child will need to stay in bed. The ENT surgeon will decide when to change the trach tube for the first time. This will be five to ten days after the trach tube is placed. After the first trach tube is changed, we will begin practicing with your child the skills you have learned in the classes.
Since the trach is below the larynx (voice box), no air goes through the vocal cords. It is important to know that it will be some time before your child will be able to make any voice sounds. Your child will work with the speech therapist to practice making these sounds with their voice, if possible, and/or they will learn new ways to communicate.
The esophagus (feeding tube) and the trachea are two separate tubes. It will take some time before your child can swallow food safely. The sense of smell and taste may be different after your child has a trach placed. Your child will work with a speech therapist to learn and develop the skills needed to swallow solids and liquids safely with a trach.
Pediatric tracheostomy doctors and providers
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Romaine Johnson, MD Pediatric Otolaryngologist (ENT) -
Stephen Chorney, MD Pediatric Otolaryngologist (ENT) -
Yann-Fuu Kou, MD Pediatric Otolaryngologist (ENT) -
Cynthia Wang, MD Pediatric Otolaryngologist (ENT) -
Rebecca Brooks, APRN, CNS Clinical Nurse Specialist - Otolaryngology
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who needs a tracheostomy procedure?
A tracheostomy may be done if your child has an object blocking their airway or if they are unable to breathe on their own. It is also performed on children who have had severe injuries to the neck or mouth or who have had previous surgery on the larynx.