Medical Encyclopedia
Tracheostomy - series: Indications
The indications for tracheostomy include:
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prolonged intubation during the course of a critical illness
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subglottic stenosis from prior trauma
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obstruction from obesity for sleep apnea
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congenital (inherited) abnormality of the larynx or trachea
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severe neck or mouth injuries
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inhalation of corrosive material smoke or steam
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presence of a large foreign body that occludes the airway
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paralysis of the muscles that affect swallowing causing a danger of aspiration
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long term unconsciousness or coma
Update Date: 1/30/2007
Updated by: Ravindra Uppaluri, MD. Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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