SUPERIOR TRACHEOTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Superior tracheotomy is a medical procedure involving the surgical creation of an artificial opening in the windpipe or trachea, specifically in the upper portion. It is performed to establish an alternative airway for patients who experience severe obstruction or other respiratory issues. This procedure is distinguished by its placement above the first tracheal ring, typically between the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage.
In a superior tracheotomy, a surgeon makes a horizontal or vertical incision in the skin, followed by a second incision in the trachea. This allows for the insertion of a tracheostomy tube or cannula, securing it in place with sutures or ties. The primary objective of this technique is to bypass any obstructions, such as tumors, foreign bodies, or severe laryngeal swelling, in the upper respiratory tract.
Superior tracheotomy may be considered when traditional techniques, such as a cricothyroidotomy or standard tracheotomy, are contraindicated, or when it is necessary to gain access to the trachea above the area of obstruction. This procedure is often performed in emergency situations, where time is critical, or in cases where it is anticipated that the patient may require prolonged ventilation.
While superior tracheotomy carries some risks, such as bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby structures, it can be a life-saving intervention, providing a secure airway for patients in respiratory distress. Close post-operative monitoring and appropriate care are essential to optimize outcomes and prevent complications.
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T. performed above the isthmus of the thyroid gland.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SUPERIOR TRACHEOTOMY
- auperior tracheotomy
- zuperior tracheotomy
- xuperior tracheotomy
- duperior tracheotomy
- euperior tracheotomy
- wuperior tracheotomy
- syperior tracheotomy
- shperior tracheotomy
- sjperior tracheotomy
- siperior tracheotomy
- s8perior tracheotomy
- s7perior tracheotomy
- suoerior tracheotomy
- sulerior tracheotomy
- su-erior tracheotomy
- su0erior tracheotomy
- supwrior tracheotomy
- supsrior tracheotomy
- supdrior tracheotomy
- suprrior tracheotomy
Etymology of SUPERIOR TRACHEOTOMY
The word "superior tracheotomy" is a medical term used to describe a specific type of tracheotomy procedure.
To understand the etymology of this term, we can break it down into its components:
1. Superior: The term "superior" is derived from the Latin word "superus", meaning "above" or "higher". In medical terminology, "superior" typically refers to a structure or position that is located higher or above another anatomical part.
2. Tracheotomy: The term "tracheotomy" is derived from the Greek words "trachea" (meaning windpipe) and "tomḗ" (meaning incision). It is a surgical procedure involving creating an incision or opening in the trachea to establish an airway when the normal breathing passage is obstructed or compromised.
