A member asked:

Why consider a tracheostomy if anticipated prolonged ventilatory support >2 wks? why not continue mechanical ventilation? how is nutrition addressed?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

Comfort: Tracheostomy is more comfortable for patient and may allow better pulmonary clearing, and should be considered if prolonged vent necessary . Feeding may be via IV of via soft tube through nasal passage down into stomach or small bowel or can also place feeding tube percutaneously into stomach or small bowel through abdominal wall. Nutrition key to weaning off vent.

Answered 1/29/2015

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