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Safe tracheostomy for patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome
Author(s) -
Wei William I.,
Tuen Henry H.,
Ng Raymond W. M.,
Lam Lai Kun
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1097/00005537-200310000-00022
Subject(s) - medicine , intubation , intensive care medicine , endotracheal intubation , tracheostomy tube , airway , endotracheal tube , medical emergency , surgery
Objectives/Hypothesis : Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused by coronavirus has become an epidemic affecting many regions worldwide. Fourteen percent to 20% of patients require endotracheal intubation and ventilator support. Some of these patients may require tracheostomy subsequently. This procedure, when performed without protection, may lead to infection of the medical and nursing staff taking care of the patient. Study Design : Based on clinical information of three patients. Methods : The authors carried out an emergency tracheostomy and changed the tracheostomy tube for one patient and performed elective tracheostomy in another two patients. Results : No medical or nursing staff member was infected after carrying out the procedure while taking all the precautions and wearing the appropriate protective apparel. Conclusion : The authors have prepared guidelines for performing a safe tracheostomy under both elective and emergency conditions. Surgeons who might be involved in performing the tracheostomy should become familiar with these guidelines and the appropriate protective apparel.