Trakeostomian

Trakeostomian is a term used to describe a person who has a tracheostomy, a surgically created opening in the neck that provides direct access to the trachea for breathing. The word is formed from trachea, stoma, and the suffix -an, and it is less common in contemporary clinical usage than more standard phrases such as tracheostomized patient or person with a tracheostomy.

A tracheostomy is performed for several reasons, including prolonged need for ventilatory support, relief of upper airway obstruction, or the management of secretions when normal breathing is compromised. During the procedure, a tracheostomy tube is inserted through an opening in the trachea in the lower neck. Tubes can be cuffed or uncuffed and may include components such as an inner cannula, an obturator for insertion, and sometimes a fenestration to assist speech.

Care and daily management focus on maintaining a clear airway and protecting the stoma. This includes regular cleaning around the stoma, humidifying inspired air, suctioning to remove secretions as needed, monitoring tube patency, and securing the tube to prevent accidental dislodgement. Some patients require specialized devices to assist speech, and decannulation—removal of the tube—is considered when airway healing or resumption of normal breathing is achieved.

Potential complications can include infection around the stoma, tube obstruction, accidental decannulation, tracheal stenosis, and granulation tissue formation. Education for patients and caregivers covers stoma care, signs of trouble, and when to seek medical advice. See also tracheostomy, airway management, and decannulation.