• J L Johnson, M L Cheatham, S G Sagraves, E F Block, and L D Nelson.
• Department of Surgical Education, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando, Florida, USA.
• Crit. Care Med. 2001 Jun 1; 29 (6): 1251-4.

ObjectiveTo compare the safety and efficacy of single- vs. multiple-dilator techniques in the performance of percutaneous dilational tracheostomy.DesignProspective randomized trial.SettingIntensive care units at a level 1 trauma center.PatientsFifty consecutive patients requiring tracheostomy for airway control or prolonged mechanical ventilatory support.InterventionsPatients were randomized to receive a percutaneous dilational tracheostomy by either the single- or multiple-dilator technique described by Ciaglia.Measurements And Main ResultsPercutaneous dilational tracheostomy was performed using the single-dilator technique in 6:01 +/- 3:03 mins and by the multiple-dilator technique in 10:01 +/- 4:26 mins (p <.0006). There were no statistically significant differences in complication rates between the two techniques. No major complications occurred with either technique.ConclusionThe single-dilator percutaneous tracheostomy technique is a safe, cost-effective, and more rapidly performed method for bedside tracheostomy in the intensive care unit.

12 keywords...

hide…