As well as changing the airway anatomy, the airway physiology is altered when a patient has a tracheostomy inserted. Depending on the type of tube and presence of a cuff, the upper airway may be isolated completely.

The tracheostomy will generally remain until the indication for insertion has resolved. In some instances however, the tracheostomy will be permanent. A laryngectomy is a permanent surgical change to the airway anatomy.

Some of the physiological changes are advantageous to us as clinicians treating these patients. Others necessitate extra vigilance and care.

Think about the changes that occur and check on the next page to see if you are right.