Some ancillary procedures for correction of depressed adherent tracheostomy scars and associated tracheocutaneous fistulae.

A procedure for the surgical correction of depressed tracheostomy scars and tracheocutaneous fistulae is described which involves reapproximation of the strap muscles and the selective application of a subcutaneous Z-plasty. The results are predictable, satisfactory, and the procedure is quite simply accomplished. Utilization of the Z-plasty improves contour in patients with atrophic tissue and assists the distribution of tension forces in subcutaneous and muscular layers.