How to Perform a Tracheostomy in a Dog with Dr. Chris Ralphs

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September 2024

In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education video, Dr. Chris Ralphs, DACVS of Ocean State Veterinary Specialists reviews how to perform a tracheostomy in a dog. In this video, he first places stay sutures to provide an easily ability to “open” the trachea during tracheostomy tube maintenance. He then places a temporary tracheostomy tube in place and secures it in place.

NOTE: Sometimes you’ll hear the term tracheostomy versus tracheotomy being used interchangeably. Please note that this will vary by the exact procedure (and surgeon). In general,  an -otomy is an incision into an organ or space, while an -ostomy is a temporary or permanent hole in an organ or space. Therefore a tracheotomy is an incision to the trachea – typically  between two tracheal rings in order to place a tube in which then becomes a temporary tracheostomy.  A permanent tracheostomy typically involves removing a portion of multiple rings and the tracheal mucosa is then sutured to the skin to form a permanent stoma.  Tracheostomies are generally done if you want to put in a permanent or long term bypass of the larynx where as a tracheotomy is generally a short term emergency procedure. For additional information, you can review these resources HERE.

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