Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in critically ill children: Case series

Abstract

Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) is a more popular option than open tracheostomy in adults. However, in the pediatric population, it is more uncommonly done due to a narrower, more malleable trachea and a smaller surgical site, which increases difficulties. Hereby, we present cases of children treated by PDT. In our case series, four children received bedside PDT in the pediatric intensive care unit. Endotracheal tube position, puncture site, and tracheal cannula size were all identified using ultrasound (US). PDT procedures were guided by flexible bronchoscopy-guided. There were no complications observed following the processes. PDT is a safe method that can be used as an alternative to surgical tracheostomy in children and is further enhanced by US and bronchoscopy-guided.

Keywords

• bronchoscopy
• children
• pediatric icu
• percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy
• ultrasound