Abstract
Introduction: The standard treatment for managing long-term ventilator-dependent patients is still tracheostomy. Lower airway resistance, smaller dead space, less tube movement inside the trachea, greater patient comfort, and more effective suction are all benefits over endotracheal intubation.
Methods: In this cross sectional study, data was collected from the purposely constructed questionnaire. The questionnaire was composed of demographical data and questions related to the tracheostomy; ethical approval was obtained, and consent from the respondents was taken, The questionnaire was anonymous and was constructed by the panel of experts including subject specialist, researchers and language specialist.
Results: Out of a total 70 patients who underwent tracheostomy, 35% were male while 65% were females, mean (SD) of age was 48.5 (10.2). Table 1 depicts that 33% have no pain while 26% have mild pain, 20% moderate pain , and 11 (10 %) have severe pain controlled by narcotics and medication respectively. 29% have not noticed any change in their appearance.
Conclusion: We conclude that tracheotomy may be successfully conducted in this group of patients and that it provides significant practical and psychological benefits over other options.