Multidisciplinary guidelines for the management of tracheostomy and laryngectomy airway emergencies

Adult tracheostomy and laryngectomy airway emergencies are uncommon, but do lead to significant morbidity and mortality. The National Tracheostomy Safety Project incorporates key stakeholder groups with multi-disciplinary expertise in airway management. , the Intensive Care Society, the Royal College of Anaesthetists, ENT UK, the British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the College of Emergency Medicine, the Resuscitation Council (UK) the Royal College of Nursing, the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Respiratory Care and the National Patient Safety Agency. Resources and emergency algorithms were developed by consensus, taking into account existing guidelines, evidence and experiences. The stakeholder groups reviewed draft emergency algorithms and feedback was also received from open peer review. The final algorithms describe a universal approach to managing such emergencies and are designed to be followed by first responders. The project aims to improve the management of tracheostomy and laryngectomy critical incidents.