title: Percutaneous tracheostomy.
abstract: Elective tracheostomy is commonly performed on patients in intensive care units who require assisted ventilation for more than 1-2 weeks. Percutaneous dilatational techniques have recently been developed which allow tracheostomies to be performed at the bedside. These compare favourably with conventional techniques.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anaesthesia, Leeds General Infirmary.
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: A R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Bodenham
mesh_terms: D000075202:Contraindications; D006801:Humans; D013511:Minor Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D013997:Time Factors; D014139:Tracheostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*