Percutaneous Tracheostomy has become the preferred method of
tracheostomy placement in critically ill patients. The most common indications are
prolonged mechanical ventilation and inability to protect the airway. The procedure is
safe, simple and is easily performed by non-surgical providers. It has advantages over
surgical tracheostomy in terms of fewer stoma infections and decreased costs. The most
widely used method of performing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy is the single
dilator method (Ciaglia Blue Rhino). Although there are several other techniques, the
single dilator method has the most experience and best safety profile. The use of
bronchoscopy and ultrasound as adjuncts facilitates placement of the tracheostomy
tube, minimizes complications and enhances patient safety.
Keywords: Bleeding, Bronchoscopy, Ciaglia Blue Rhino, Complications of
Tracheostomy, Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy, Posterior Tracheal
Injury, Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation, Respiratory Failure, Single Dilation
Technique, Surgical Tracheostomy, Tracheal Stenosis, Ultrasound.
