A tracheostomy is a surgical opening created in the neck that connects directly to the windpipe (trachea) to help a child breathe. It may be needed for various reasons including long-term ventilation support, severe airway obstruction or certain congenital or neurological conditions. While having a tracheostomy can be overwhelming at first, many children with tracheostomies live active, healthy lives with proper care and support.

Tracheostomy care involves keeping the tube clean and the airway clear to prevent infections and blockages. Parents and caregivers are taught how to change the tracheostomy tube, clean the area around it and suction mucus as needed. It’s also important to monitor for signs of infection, difficulty breathing or accidental dislodgement. Our specialists at ENT for Kids have extensive training from the country’s top pediatric hospitals for airway care. Along with your child’s pediatrician, specialists and our team at ENT for Kids we are able to provide ongoing guidance and follow-up to ensure the tracheostomy remains safe and functional. Over time, some children may outgrow the need for a tracheostomy, and it can be safely removed when the airway is stable and strong enough to support normal breathing.

If your child has a tracheostomy tube, please reach out to us to arrange an appointment and continued care.

Content created with assistance from Open AI, ChatGPT