Situations that may call for a tracheostomy include: Medical conditions that make it necessary to use a breathing machine (ventilator) for an extended period, usually more than one or two weeks. Medical conditions that block or narrow your airway, such as vocal cord paralysis or throat cancer.

When would you use a tracheostomy?

A tracheostomy is usually done for one of three reasons: to bypass an obstructed upper airway; to clean and remove secretions from the airway; to more easily, and usually more safely, deliver oxygen to the lungs.

Who is a candidate for a tracheostomy?

Patients with respiratory failure who cannot be weaned within 7–10 days are candidates for tracheostomy. Most severely injured trauma patients requiring intubation longer than 5 days will require airway support and will benefit from early tracheostomy.