OBJECTIVES To determine if the timing of tracheotomy in elderly patients results in less ventilator associated-pneumonia, mortality, and morbidity. STUDY DESIGN Historical cohort study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS This study included 158 ICU patients aged >65 who underwent tracheotomy from March 2003 to June 2007. Patient demographics, outcomes, and ventilation data were collected and analyzed. ...

The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between tracheotomy and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The study used a retrospective case-control study design based on prospective data. All nontrauma immunocompetent patients, intubated and ventilated for >7 days, were eligible for inclusion in the study. A diagnosis of VAP was based on clinical, radiographical and microb...

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS To determine whether the timing of tracheotomy placement impacts ventilation weaning status and mortality. STUDY DESIGN Multi-institution retrospective cohort study. METHODS Demographic data, procedural details, and clinical outcomes were recorded for patients undergoing tracheotomy for prolonged mechanical ventilation across eight sites. The study group was divided in...

Background: Laryngeal carcinoma occupies the space of glottis. It may lead to difficult airway, and is prone to bleed if intubated with endotracheal tube (ETI). Intubation can also result in the possibility of tumor cultivation in the lung. Use of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) could avoid the disadvantages of endotracheal intubation, which would benefit patients undergoing partial laryngectomy. M...

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Percutaneous tracheotomy has become a good alternative for patients thought to have prolonged intubation in intensive care units. The most important benefits of tracheotomy are early discharge of the patient from the intensive care unit and shortening of the time spent in the hospital. Prolonged endotracheal intubation has complications such as laryngeal damage, vocal ...