Study Summary:

A study conducted at PIMS Hospital, Islamabad, aimed to assess the frequency of complications in patients undergoing elective and emergency tracheostomies. The cross-sectional study included 110 patients, divided into two groups: elective tracheostomy (Group A) and emergency tracheostomy (Group B). Over a six-month period, these patients were monitored for three months post-operation for any complications.

Results:

• Mean age: Group A – 48.47±12.68 years; Group B – 49.54±10.99 years (p=0.636).
• Gender distribution: Group A – 72.7% male, 27.3% female; Group B – 67.3% male, 32.7% female.
• Complication rates in Group A vs. Group B were as follows:
  • Surgical emphysema: 3.6% vs. 9.1% (p=0.241)
  • Hemorrhage: 3.6% vs. 7.3% (p=0.401)
  • Wound infection: 5.5% vs. 10.9% (p=0.279)
  • Tube blockage: 0.0% vs. 1.8% (p=0.315)
  • Tube displacement: 0.0% vs. 5.5% (p=0.079)
  • Tracheoesophageal fistula: 0.0% vs. 3.6% (p=0.154)
• Overall complications were significantly higher in emergency tracheostomies (38.2%) compared to elective tracheostomies (12.7%).

Conclusion:

The study concluded that emergency tracheostomy patients are at a higher risk of postoperative complications compared to those undergoing elective tracheostomy. This finding underscores the importance of careful consideration and management of tracheostomy patients, particularly in emergency situations, to minimize potential complications.

Significance:

This research contributes to the current literature by providing quantitative evidence on the differential risk of complications between elective and emergency tracheostomy procedures, highlighting the need for enhanced care protocols for patients undergoing emergency tracheostomies.