Bleeding during percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy – What to do while waiting for the surgeon?

What is it about?

Bleeding during insertion of a percutaneous tracheostomy is relatively common. Although usually mild, it can be severe and occasionally life-threatening. This paper reviews the reasons for periprocedural bleeding and covers how to manage a major bleed.

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Why is it important?

Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomies (PDT) are relatively common procedures, however there is relatively little in the literature surrounding to manage periprocedural bleeding.