Tracheostomy guidelines developed at a large academic medical center during the COVID‐19 pandemic

Background During the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, tracheostomy may be required for COVID‐19 patients requiring long‐term ventilation in addition to other conditions such as airway compromise from head and neck cancer. As an aerosol‐generating procedure, tracheostomy increases the exposure of health care workers to COVID‐19 infection. Performing surgical tracheostomy and tracheostomy care requires a strategy that mitigates these risks and maintains the quality of patient care. Methods This study is a multidisciplinary review of institutional tracheostomy guidelines and clinical pathways. Modifications to support clinical decision making in the context of COVID‐19 were derived by consensus and available evidence. Results Modified guidelines for all phases of tracheostomy care at an academic tertiary care center in the setting of COVID‐19 are presented. Discussion During the various phases of the COVID‐19 pandemic, clinicians must carefully consider the indications, procedural precautions, and postoperative care for tracheostomies. We present guidelines to mitigate risk to health care workers while preserving the quality of care.