Findings/Results
Enhanced PPE is recommended during tracheotomy of COVID-19 positive
patients. Adjunctive airway management before definitive intervention
includes use of high flow nasal cannulas (HFNC). Non-invasive
ventilation via continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and bilevel
positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines are not recommended. Timing of
tracheotomy should be at least 10 days after intubation. Percutaneous
dilatational tracheotomy (PDT) is likely associated with lower
transmission risks to healthcare workers (HCW) than surgical tracheotomy
(ST). Other key precautions include minimizing diathermy use.