Name of the Procedure:

Common Names: Tracheostomy Stent, Tracheostoma Stud, Tracheostoma Button
Technical Term: A7524 - Tracheostoma stent/stud/button, each

Summary

A tracheostoma stent, stud, or button is a medical device inserted into a tracheostomy (an artificial opening into the windpipe) to keep the airway open. This device is used to maintain the patency of the tracheostomy and to ensure that the patient can breathe effectively through the stoma.

Purpose

These devices address medical conditions that affect the airway, such as severe airway obstruction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or after a laryngectomy. The goals are to ensure that the tracheostomy remains open, to facilitate breathing, and to improve the patient’s quality of life.

Indications

• Patients with a tracheostomy in need of maintaining an open stoma.
• Conditions such as severe airway obstruction or after surgical removal of the larynx.
• Patients with chronic respiratory conditions requiring a permanent or long-term tracheostomy.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions might include fasting for a few hours prior, particularly if anesthesia is used.
• The patient may need to adjust medications, especially blood thinners.
• Initial diagnostic tests may involve imaging studies or blood tests to assess the overall health and suitability for the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider will clean the tracheostomy site.
2. An appropriate-sized stent/stud/button is selected.
3. Using sterile techniques, the clinician will gently insert the device into the tracheostomy stoma.
4. Once in place, the device is secured to prevent displacement.
5. The procedure might be conducted under local anesthesia or a mild sedative based on patient needs and comfort.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and patient-specific factors.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or a surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeons specialized in otolaryngology (ENT specialists)
• Respiratory therapists
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologists, if sedation is required

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the tracheostomy site
• Displacement or blockage of the stent/stud/button
• Development of granulation tissue
• Airway irritation or bleeding
• Rare reactions to anesthesia or sedatives

Benefits

• Improved airway patency and breathing
• Enhanced quality of life
• Reduced risk of airway obstruction Patients usually notice an improvement in breathing immediately after the procedure.

Recovery

• Patients should keep the site clean and dry, following specific post-procedure care instructions.
• Regular follow-ups may be necessary to monitor the site and the device.
• Typical recovery involves minimal downtime, but activities may be restricted temporarily to prevent complications.

Alternatives

• Use of tracheostomy tubes instead of a stent/stud/button.
• Non-surgical methods such as CPAP or BiPAP for some conditions.
• The alternatives may involve different benefits and risks, including frequency of replacements and patient comfort.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel mild discomfort, especially with local anesthesia. Post-procedure, patients may experience some soreness around the stoma but should manage pain with prescribed medications. Regular cleaning and follow-ups will be part of routine care to ensure the device functions correctly and complications are promptly addressed.

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