[Percutaneous tracheostomy to the patient with coagulopathy].

BACKGROUND

Generally, coagulopathy is a relative contraindication for surgical tracheotomy.

METHODS

Fourteen patients with severe respiratory failure and coagulopathy underwent elective percutaneous tracheostomy using Portex percutaneous tracheostomy kit.

RESULTS

Apart from minor bleeding episodes during and after the procedures which were controlled promptly, no other complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

If careful precautions are observed, we believe that percutaneous tracheostomy is safe even in patients with severe respiratory failure and coagulopathy.