Incidence of tracheostomy performed for airway management in patients undergoing oral cancer surgeries

Aim:The aim of this study was to analyse the incidence of tracheostomy that was performed for managing airway during oral cancer surgeries. Background:Airway management is an essential procedure involved in any surgical set up and securing an airway is the first priority in any emergency that is encountered. A reliable source of ventilation is necessary and of utmost importance. Tracheostomy is a very frequently performed emergency surgical procedure. It is a surgical type of airway in which an incision is made in the anterior aspect of the neck in order to gain direct access into the trachea. Materials and methods:This study is a retrospective study conducted in a University setting. The required data for the topics was obtained by analysing over 5,35,951 case sheets from June 2019 to January 2021 and data was extracted from these. This data was compiled and tabulated using Microsoft Excel. The data was then verified by a cross examiner using photographs and data validation. There was no resolution of conflict. The tabulated data was exported to IBM, SPSS Software, Version 23, Chicago. Descriptive Statistics was done. Results:The results obtained from this study show that 13% of females and 47% of males underwent elective procedures whereas, 7% of females and 33% of males underwent emergency procedures. Of the total population, 40% underwent emergency procedures while 60% underwent elective procedures. Conclusion: Tracheostomy has been performed as an emergency as well as an elective procedure. There have been various indications for tracheostomy as well as contraindications. Within the limits of this study, it can be concluded that tracheostomy is more commonly performed in males when compared to females.