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Self-retaining T-incision for difficult tracheotomy

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 March 2007

D Cohen
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem and Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Jerusalem, Israel
Y Gurvitz
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem and Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Jerusalem, Israel
P Friedman
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem and Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Jerusalem, Israel
D Raveh
Affiliation:
Infectious Diseases Unit, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem and Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Jerusalem, Israel
R Perez
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem and Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Jerusalem, Israel

Abstract

Problem: To overcome difficulties in complicated tracheotomies through the use of a T-incision.

Study design: Retrospective.

Methods: A T-shaped incision allows the wound edges to retract aside spontaneously, without the use of retractors. Four hundred and twelve patients were retrospectively evaluated; 203 received traditional tracheotomy incisions and 209 received a T-incision.

Results: Complication rates were similar for the two groups: 3 per cent in the traditional incision group and 4 per cent in the T-incision group (difference non-significant).

Conclusions: The T-incision enables good control of bleeding and better exposure of the trachea. This incision was developed for use in difficult cases, such as patients with a short or thick neck, and complicated needle dilatation procedures. The T-incision is quick and suitable for a solo surgeon. Its cosmetic results are acceptable, and it has the same low complication rate as traditional incisions.

Type
Main Articles
Copyright
2007 JLO (1984) Limited

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