Name of the Procedure:

Surgical closure tracheostomy or fistula; with plastic repair

Summary

This procedure involves surgical intervention to close a tracheostomy or a fistula (abnormal tube-like connection). A plastic repair technique is used to ensure proper healing and functional restoration.

Purpose

• Medical Condition or Problem Addressed: Persistent tracheostomies or fistulas that do not close naturally, leading to complications like infections or difficulty breathing.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: Complete closure of the tracheostomy or fistula, restoration of normal breathing functions, and prevention of infections or further complications.

Indications

• Chronic or non-healing tracheostomies or fistulas.
• Signs of infection or airway obstruction.
• Patient's inability to tolerate the presence of an open tracheostomy or fistula.
• Elective closure after the underlying need for a tracheostomy has resolved.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure. Adjustments in medication, especially blood thinners, as advised by the physician.
• Diagnostic Tests: Preoperative imaging (e.g., X-rays or CT scans) to assess the site. Blood tests to ensure proper coagulation and absence of infection.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia to ensure the patient is completely unaware and pain-free.
2. Incision and Exposure: An incision is made around the area of the tracheostomy or fistula to expose it fully.
3. Closure: The abnormal opening is carefully closed using sutures. If necessary, tissue flaps or grafts may be used for plastic repair to ensure a secure and functional closure.
4. Verification: The repair is checked for integrity and proper sealing.
5. Wound Care: The incision site is closed, and dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1-2 hours, but this may vary based on individual cases and complexity.

Setting

This surgery is usually performed in a hospital setting, either in an operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Performs the procedure.
• Anesthesiologist: Administers anesthesia and monitors the patient’s vital signs.
• Surgical Nurses: Assist the surgeon and provide perioperative care.
• Respiratory Therapist: May assist in managing the patient’s airway before and after the procedure.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
• Rare Risks: Failure of the closure, recurrence of the fistula or tracheostomy, damage to surrounding structures, and voice changes.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Successful closure of the opening, restoration of normal function and appearance, reduction in infection risk.
• Timeline: Benefits are usually realized within a few weeks post-surgery, following a short recovery period.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Monitoring in a recovery room immediately after surgery. Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Instructions: Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Follow up with healthcare provider for suture removal and wound check.
• Recovery Time: Generally, patients can return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery and individual healing rates.

Alternatives

• Injection of Sealants: Non-surgical approach using biological adhesives.
• Observation: In cases where the fistula is small and asymptomatic.
• Comparison: Surgical closure with plastic repair provides more definitive and immediate results compared to non-surgical methods, which might require extended time and have less predictable outcomes.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: The patient is under general anesthesia and will not feel anything.
• After Procedure: Pain and discomfort at the surgical site, managed with medications. Temporary hoarseness or difficulty in swallowing, which usually improves as healing progresses.

Strict adherence to post-operative instructions and follow-up care will ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications.