Dilatational percutaneous tracheostomy: modification of technique.
BACKGROUND: Major inherent risks associated with percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy include loss of airway during endotracheal tube manipulation, inability to cannulate the trachea below the endotracheal tube, and difficulties related to neck anatomy. METHOD: Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy technique was modified to make the incision in the suprasternal area, and the use of air leak technique confirmed tracheal penetration below the endotracheal cuff. Bronchoscopy was not used. RESULTS: One hundred patients underwent percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy using the modification mentioned above. Although three patients had minor bleeding complications, there was no loss of airway; nor were there other complications. CONCLUSION: This technique provides improved safety from loss of airway and illuminates the need for concomitant bronchoscopy.