Tracheostomy After Major Vascular Surgery

Conclusions: Tracheostomy in patients after aortic reconstruction for aneurysmal disease is associated with a high incidence of in-hospital mortality. Patients who survive to ICU discharge are likely to be transferred to a CVDU for further respiratory management. The preoperative diagnosis of COPD is associated with improved survival, whereas postoperative sepsis is associated with an increased mortality. These observations should be considered when counseling patients and their families regarding tracheostomy after aortic surgery.