To evaluate the various indications and the outcomes of tracheostomy in ICU; an observational study

Abstract

Objective: to study the various underlying disease aspects of indications and the outcomes of tracheostomy in ICU at Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was done in ICU, Department of ENT Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, Patna, Bihar, India for 9 months. Total 110 patients who underwent elective open tracheostomy in ICU by ENT surgeons for various indications were included in this study. Patients details (age and sex), complete clinical history pertaining to the cause of prolong intubation/ indication of tracheostomy, timing and complications was compiled and analyzed. Results: Out of 110 patients 75 (68.19%) were male and 35 (31.81%) were female and male to female ratio was 2.14:1. The age ranges of patients from 12-72 years and highest frequency were 20-30 years age group 35 (31.81%) followed by 25(22.75%) were from 40-50 years age group. Out of 110 cases head injury with h/o road traffic accident (RTA) was the frequent indication 30 (27.27%) and postoperative case of intracranial space occupying lesion (ICSOL) was the second most indication 28 (25.45%). Out of 110 cases over all complications was 11 (10%) and most common complication was surgical emphysema 4 (3.36%) followed by hemorrhage 3 (2.72%), tube displacement 2(1.81%) and wound infection 2 (1.81%).  Conclusion: Tracheostomy in ICU is an important and safe procedure if prolonged endotracheal intubation is advised for varying underlying causes.

Keywords: Tracheostomy, Intensive care unit.