A modified technique for tubeless tracheostomy

The dog is an animal widely used in experiments, and tracheostomy is frequently necessary when laryngeal experiments are carried out. Unfortunately, dogs generally do not tolerate tracheostomy well because the inserted cannula easily becomes displaced or blocked. This article presents a new surgical technique aimed at providing a long-term, dependable, and safe airway. It is based on previously established, clinically tested principles to avoid local tracheal complications. No essential tissue is removed or irreparably damaged and the procedure is reversible. Flexibility in management of the resultant stoma is possible, allowing either maintenance of maximal patency or gradual closure. Twenty-one animals were studied for 3- and 6-month periods, and there was no morbidity because of airway obstruction. This technique can reduce loss of valuable experimental animals caused by airway complications. It may also have application in human beings.