Table 1 Definitions of PDT complications and their severity (according to Kost [3])
From: Feasibility and safety of dilatational tracheotomy using the rigid endoscope: a multicenter study
Complication | Minor (Easily corrected with no sequelae) | Intermediate (Intervention required, potential for persistent sequelae) | Major (Potentially life-threatening) |
|---|---|---|---|
Bleeding | Coagulated/compressed | Surgically controlled | Uncontrollable, death |
Posterior tracheal wall injury | - | Without consequences | Mediastinitis, tracheo-esophageal fistula, death |
Tracheal ring fracture | - | Reposition or resection required | Airway obstruction |
Anesthesia complication | Quickly managed | Additional intervention required | Life-threatening, death |
Special incident | Quickly managed | Additional intervention required | Life-threatening, death |
Pneumothorax | - | - | Life-threatening, death |
Desaturation SpO2 < 90% | Less than 60 s. | Additional intervention required, no hypoxia sequelae | Life-threatening, death |