Tracheotomy: Understanding the Procedure and Its Uses

Tracheotomy is a surgical procedure in which a hole is made in the trachea (windpipe). This allows air to bypass a blockage or obstruction in the upper airway, such as the mouth or nose. Tracheotomy can be performed as an emergency procedure to save a person's life, or it can be planned in advance for a person who has a long-term airway problem.