There are many reasons why a patient may end up requiring a tracheostomy tube, including the emergency requirements and elective requirements.

Examples of emergency reasons for a tracheostomy:

• Facial trauma
• Tumour in neck or mouth
• Allergic swelling
• Burns to the upper airway

Examples of elective reasons for a tracheostomy:

• Resection of tumours
• Oral maxillofacial surgery
• Prolonged intubation
• “Tracheobronchial Toilet”