TRACHEOTOMY IN CHILDREN-A Controlled, Planned Emergency Procedure.

The value of tracheotomy as a life-saving operation has been increased greatly in recent years by a broadening of the indications for its use. It is made safer for the patient by performing it reasonably early, and, in any event, under planned emergency conditions. The first is made possible by experience and judgment in choosing the time, mainly from close observation of the patient; the second by preceding the operation with tracheal intubation. Meticulous post-operative care is of great importance.