Outcome of permanent tracheostomy for treatment of upper airway obstruction in cats: 21 cases (1990–2007)

Abstract

Results indicated that permanent tracheostomy was an uncommon procedure in cats with upper airway obstruction that was associated with high complication and mortality rates.

Upper Airway Disease: Tracheostomy

“…Electrocardiographic monitoring during this procedure may be recommended, and oxygen supplementation may be required after suctioning is complete. Examination of the tracheostomy site should be performed and either airway suctioning or cannula exchange should occur every 2-4 h in dogs [1] and every 1-2 h in cats [6].…”

“…In veterinary patients, complications associated with temporary tracheostomy tube placement are common and have been reported in up to 86% of cases [3][4][5][6]. Significant complications directly associated with an artificial airway in veterinary patients are accidental extubation, tube occlusion (risk of hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and sudden death), airway colonization (risk of pneumonia), tracheal injury, and subcutaneous emphysema [3][4][5][6].…”

“…Significant complications directly associated with an artificial airway in veterinary patients are accidental extubation, tube occlusion (risk of hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and sudden death), airway colonization (risk of pneumonia), tracheal injury, and subcutaneous emphysema [3][4][5][6]. Other less commonly reported complications related to direct mucosal irritation, trauma, or air leakage may occur.…”

“…Other less commonly reported complications related to direct mucosal irritation, trauma, or air leakage may occur. Compared to dogs, a higher rate of complications and morbidity following tracheostomy has been reported in cats [6].…”

“…Since inspired air through a tracheostomy is not warmed and humidified, excess mucus is produced by the tracheobronchial tree. Mucus or airway secretions may accumulate at the tracheostomy site and cause partial or complete obstruction, especially in cats [6]. Frequent monitoring, cleaning, suction, or cannula exchange of the tracheostomy is necessary to ensure that the airway is unobstructed.…”