Definition
A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the trachea (windpipe) to facilitate breathing. This opening, called a stoma, allows air to bypass obstructions in the upper airway. Think of it as a detour around a blocked road. It's often performed when a person has difficulty breathing due to injury, illness, or congenital conditions. A tube is inserted into the stoma to keep it open and allow air to enter the lungs. This procedure can be life-saving in cases of severe respiratory distress. Tracheostomy differs from tracheotomy in that it refers to the created opening, not just the incision.