BEDSIDE ENDOSCOPIC PERCUTANEOUS TRACHEOSTOMY

Tracheostomy is a frequently performed procedure, which carries a mortality rate of up to 5% and morbidity rate as high as 66%. It is primarily performed to facilitate prolonged positive pressure ventilation. Recently, a few authors have described bedside percutaneous tracheostomy and emphasized its simplicity and safety. We report 13 cases of intensive care unit patients (intubated and ventilated) who had the procedure performed at their bedside. No morbidity or mortality occurred related to the procedure. We recommend percutaneous endoscopic tracheostomy to be used routinely for intensive care unit patients who require tracheostomy.