An incision is usually made at the 2 nd , 3 rd or 4 th tracheal cartilage.
During insertion of the Tracheostomy tube, the obturator replaces the inner cannula. Its smooth surface protrudes from the outer cannula, minimizing tracheal trauma. Once the tracheostomy tube is inserted, the obturator is removed and replaced with an inner cannula. Make sure the inner cannula is locked in place.
• The obturator should be placed in a plastic bag and kept at the bedside in case the tube needs to be reinserted emergently.
Surgical tracheostomy