Percutaneous endoscopic tracheostomy.

Bedside percutaneous tracheostomies are increasingly performed. This avoids patient transport to the operating room. Complications of this procedure are largely related to the blind nature of the technique. After laboratory studies, 4 patients underwent percutaneous endoscopic guided tracheostomy in a selective clinical trial. There were no procedure-related complications. Endoscopic guidance ensures precise low tracheostomy position, prevents paratracheal tube misplacement, and avoids inadvertent injuries.