Short- and long-term complications of surgical and percutaneous dilatation tracheotomies: a large single-centre retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine and compare the incidence of long- and short-term complications of percutaneous dilatation tracheotomies (PDT) and surgical tracheotomies (ST). DESIGN: A single-centre retrospective study. PARTICIPANTS: 305 patients undergoing a tracheotomy (PDT or ST) in the University Medical Center Groningen from 2003 to 2013 were included. Data were gathered from patient files. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Short-term and long-term complications including tracheal stenosis. RESULTS: The incidence of short- and long-term complications, including tracheal stenosis, was similar in both groups. Analysis of a small high-risk subgroup showed no difference in long-term complications. CONCLUSIONS: The rate of short- and long-term complications, including tracheal stenosis, is equal in PDT and ST. PDT is a safe alternative for ST in selected patients.