TRACHEOTOMY IN POLIOMYELITIS SIMPLIFIED WITH NEW RESPIRATOR

Abstract

THE life-saving effect of tracheotomy in certain types of poliomyelitis was first reported by Galloway in 1943.¹ His work has been corroborated in several epidemics since that time.² In the Idaho epidemic of 1947 approximately 400 poliomyelitis patients were hospitalized in St. Luke's Hospital in Boise. It is our opinion, from our experiences in this epidemic, that tracheotomy when properly indicated has been a life-saving measure. Galloway's recent recommendations³ as to indications and technic have been followed as closely as possible. Tracheotomies performed on patients that were not in respirators have presented no particular problem. In these cases an airway has been established by means of a bronchoscope or an endotracheal tube, The anesthetist has taken charge of the airway and proper oxygen flow, and the laryngologist has done a well planned and "orderly" tracheotomy. The postoperative care of these patients has presented no special problem. However, patients with severe