Tracheotomy and tracheal cannula in children

Emergencies in tracheotomized children is rare, so is the individual experience of emergency staff. The article gives information about routine care of such patients with hints how to avoid problems. Tracheotomy can be a life-saving or life-sustaining intervention but in contrast there is a risk of life-threatening complications and a burden of secondary complications. The treatment of children by tracheotomy should be standardized and follow current guidelines as well as personal experience but training is absolutely necessary. Emergencies result in particular from blocked airways and deterioration of respiratory insufficiency. Practicing on dummies and regular education in intensive care units provide safety in treating tracheotomized children.