Retroversion bronchoscopy: an innovative approach to percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy and more

Abstract

Tracheostomy is one of the most performed procedures in intensive care unit. Dilatational techniques, such as those described by Ciaglia, Griggs, or Fantoni, are currently the best choices as they can be easily performed at the bedside. Like any other intervention, early and late complications can occur even if the procedure appears to be performed without any issues. Although using a bronchoscope can make tracheostomy easier and safer, its routine utilization remains controversial. We describe a new method to further reduce the incidence of some complications: retroversion bronchoscopy. This new approach is not difficult to master and may be useful in other intensive care unit scenarios as well.

Keywords

• Bronchoscopy
• percutaneous tracheostomy
• tracheostomy methods
• percutaneous dilational tracheostomy
• tracheostomy instrument