Has anyone had problems with their trachie site? Mine healed over nicely after the op but has recently opened up again - just a little - but enough to create a bit of 'oozing'. I told my district nurse (who comes to see to my peg) and she suggested painting it with Betadine, which I have done. It's a good few weeks since it openend up and doesn't seem to be healing over. Any suggestions please....x

Hello Brenda, How long did it take your to heal up? It seems like mine hasn't done a thing. It has been 18 days now. I was thinking that it would start to close some. Let me know? Okay. Thanks Vicki

Speaking of traches. I have about 6 or 7 size 4 traches, the complete kit. I also have quite a few of the trache cleaning kits. If anyone on the site needs them. Hate to just throw them away. I can't get any credit on them. They have not been used..AT ALL. Please let me know....Always Vicki Lynn

Hello Brenda and Vicky

If the tracheostomy is temporary, the tube will eventually be removed. Healing will occur quickly, leaving a minimal scar.

If the tracheostomy tube is there for some time, the hole could remain open and may require surgical closure when no longer needed.

Hope these links help:
Tracheostomy -indications/complications
Tracheostomy care - nurse's guide (pdf)
Decannulation - what happens when it is taken out ...

Best wishes
Vinod :coffee:

Thanks Doc, yes my doc said that is may take longer for mine to heal because of all the damage to the neck area from radiation. I was just wondering how long it """REALLY""" takes.....I get tired of the """TEXTBOOK""" answers sometimes. I want to hear some real ones...well off to do some running....Always Vicki Lynn

quote:

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...well off to do some running....Always Vicki Lynn

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There you go again - the Nevada road runner :lol:
Dun forget yer shades gal

Vinod :coffee: ( lifting the mug is the only exercise i get! )

Thanks Dr J. I am 8 months on from the op but may still have the MRSA virus - could this inhibit the healing? As my site healed very well after the op I am wondering why it has suddenly opened up again. I am due to have a tongue de-bulking op on the 15th and don't want anything to get in the way this time. Are there any creams that are better at aiding the healing process? Sorry to be a nuisance. I have tried ringing my Macmillan nurse but she hasn't got back to me. GP's tend not to have much experience of trachies! Should I keep the opening covered?

Vicki, I'm sure your site will take a bit longer as you have had the trachie in a lot longer than me, also you had radiotherapy which might have made the tissue a bit harder to heal. ?? You are doing great x

Brenda, I have asked for an expert's advice ....

My District Nurse thinks I might have a bit of a suture left in there. I am seeing my GP this afternoon in case I need antiobiotics to try and rid any infection before my op next week. Thank you for your help.

Brenda, I haven't had my trache in longer than you, it is about the same time frame. I had my surgery Feb 17, 2004. So it was 8 months. It is not closing tho at all. I go to my doc in a few weeks, will se what he says. Iam just proud to have the damm thing out. Vicki