title: Evaluation of a new percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy set apparatus.
abstract: Percutaneous tracheostomy is a well established technique used primarily to assist weaning from mechanical ventilation on many intensive care units. We report our experiences of a total of 36 procedures performed with the new Blue Rhino Percutaneous Tracheostomy Introducer Set developed by Ciaglia. The technique was successful in all cases and was simpler and quicker to perform than with the earlier Ciaglia percutaneous tracheostomy set. Difficulties were encountered when using Shiley tracheostomy tubes. Significant complications included one posterior wall tear and one tracheal cartilage ring fracture.
authors.affiliation: The Intensive Care Unit, Blackpool Victoria Hospital NHS Trust, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool FY3 8NR, UK.
authors.forename: M S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Bewsher
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Adams
authors.forename: C W
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Clarke
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: McConachie
authors.forename: D R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Kelly
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D014139:Tracheostomy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D015300:Ventilator Weaning / Q000295:instrumentation