Early tracheostomy in acute heart failure exacerbation

Heart failure is one of the leading causes of high morbidity and mortality. It was estimated that a total of 5.7 million Americans>20 years of age had heart failure from 2009 to 2012. That number is anticipated to increase 46% by 2030.1 Acute heart failure (AHF) exacerbation is a potentially fatal condition that may result in acute respiratory failure and requires mechanical ventilation. Despite ongoing treatment, not all patients can be weaned off the ventilator. In such cases, tracheostomy is indicated to obtain the benefit of comfort for the patients, less sedation and more stable airway compare to an endotracheal tube with a lower risk of infections.
Source: Heart and Lung - Category: Intensive Care Authors: Source Type: research