tracheostomy

American  

[trey-kee-os-tuh-mee] / ˌtreɪ kiˈɒs tə mi /

noun

Surgery.

plural

tracheostomies

1. the construction of an artificial opening through the neck into the trachea, usually for the relief of difficulty in breathing.

2. the opening so constructed.

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tracheostomy British  

/ ˌtrækɪˈɒstəmɪ /

noun

1. the surgical formation of a temporary or permanent opening into the trachea following tracheotomy

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tracheostomy Scientific  

/ trā′kē-ŏs′tə-mē /

1. Surgical construction of an opening in the trachea, usually by making an incision in the front of the neck, for the insertion of a catheter or tube to facilitate breathing.

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Etymology

Origin of tracheostomy

First recorded in 1920–25; tracheo- + -stomy

Example Sentences

Rob had several operations in the US including a tracheostomy, as he could not breathe by himself, a peg in his stomach to feed him, and a pacemaker fitted.

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2026

Jatana became alarmed by the risks after caring for a 2-year-old child who ended up needing a tracheostomy to breathe.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 29, 2024

They may get ventilator coverage by entering hospice care or having a tracheostomy.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 9, 2024

Lewis was admitted to the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath after a seizure and underwent a tracheostomy - a hole inserted in the front of his neck.

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2023

He also had myocarditis in the lining of his heart, and still speaks through a tracheostomy tube in his throat.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 9, 2023