TRACHEA

TRACHEA

1. Definition: The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi (airways) of the lungs.

2. Pathology: The trachea can be affected by various conditions, including tracheal stenosis, tracheomalacia, and tracheal tumors.

3. Types of Tracheostomy:

   1. Open Tracheostomy: A surgical procedure where an incision is made in the anterior neck to create an airway.

   2. Closed Tracheostomy: A procedure where a small incision is made in the anterior neck, and a tracheostomy tube is inserted through the incision.

   3. Pertracheal Tracheostomy: A procedure where a tracheostomy tube is inserted through a small incision in the pericardium (sac surrounding the heart).

   4. Suprastomal Tracheostomy: A procedure where a tracheostomy tube is inserted above the stoma (opening) in the trachea.

4. Clinical Features of Tracheostomy:

   1. Indications: Tracheostomy is performed to establish an airway in patients with respiratory failure, severe laryngotracheal obstruction, or other conditions that require long-term ventilation.
   2. Contraindications: Tracheostomy is contraindicated in patients with severe neck trauma, bleeding disorders, or other conditions that may compromise the airway.

5. Functions of Tracheostomy:

   1. Establishes an airway: Tracheostomy creates a direct airway into the trachea, bypassing the upper airway.
   2. Provides ventilatory support: Tracheostomy allows for mechanical ventilation or non-invasive ventilation.
   3. Facilitates oral care: Tracheostomy allows for easy oral care and reduces the risk of aspiration.

6. Complications of Tracheostomy:

   1. Bleeding: Bleeding from the trachea or surrounding tissues is a common complication.
   2. Infection: Infection of the trachea or surrounding tissues can occur.
   3. Tracheal stenosis: Tracheal stenosis can occur due to scarring or narrowing of the trachea.
   4. Tracheomalacia: Tracheomalacia is a condition characterized by weak or floppy tracheal cartilage.

7. Sequelae of Tracheostomy:

   1. Tracheal stenosis: Tracheal stenosis can occur due to scarring or narrowing of the trachea.
   2. Tracheomalacia: Tracheomalacia is a condition characterized by weak or floppy tracheal cartilage.
   3. Tracheal granulation: Tracheal granulation can occur due to inflammation or scarring.

8. Procedure of Tracheostomy:

   1. Step 1: The patient is positioned on a bed or table with the neck extended.
   2. Step 2: The surgeon makes an incision in the anterior neck, usually around 2 cm in length.
   3. Step 3: The surgeon identifies the trachea and makes a small incision in the skin and muscle to expose the trachea.
   4. Step 4: The surgeon inserts a tracheostomy tube through the incision into the trachea.
   5. Step 5: The surgeon secures the tracheostomy tube in place with ties or a tracheostomy collar.

Homoeopathic Therapeutic Medicines for Tracheostomy

1. Aconitum: For acute respiratory distress or dyspnea.
2. Belladonna: For inflammation or infection of the trachea.
3. Phosphorus: For inflammation or scarring of the trachea.
4. Sulphur: For tracheal stenosis or narrowing.

Important Points

1. Blood Supply: The trachea is supplied by branches of the inferior thyroid artery.
2. Nerve Supply: The trachea is innervated by branches of the vagus nerve.
3. Clinical Anatomy: The trachea is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx to the bronchi, and is surrounded by the thyroid gland and esophagus.