Tracheostomy
Call 911
If your child is having trouble breathing, the trach tube falls out or becomes blocked and you cannot immediately solve the problem call 911.
What is a Tracheostomy?
A tracheotomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening through the neck into the trachea (windpipe). This new opening is called a tracheostomy or stoma.
We put a tube into the stoma to keep the airway open. The tube also helps with the removal of secretions from the lungs. This tube is called a tracheostomy or “trach” tube. We place the trach tube below the larynx (voice box). And a trach is placed in front of the esophagus (swallowing tube). Your child’s ability to speak, make noises or eat with their trach will be discussed with your child's team prior to tracheostomy placement and will be ongoing.
View the different parts of a tracheostomy.
Care of a Tracheostomy
Read about routine care of the tracheostomy stoma and tube.
- Skin Care
- Tie Changes
- Tube Changes
- Cleaning a Tracheostomy Tube & Suction Catheters
Suctioning & Secretions
How to tell if your child needs suctioning and step-by-step instructions.
Humidification
Learn why humidification is important and how to provide extra.
Airway Clearance
Emergency Situations
Emergency equipment, changes in breathing, bag-mask ventilation & CPR
Symptom Management
See a list of frequently asked questions & answers about tracheostomies and children.