Traqueotomía en contexto de covid-19. Guía de práctica clínica para la toma de decisión quirúrgica

The current pandemic situation caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has surpassed the capacity of intensive care units in much of the world with patients with acute respiratory failure. The necessity of protecting the health-care personnel that is in contact with this group of patients has led to the modification of existing protocols. The scheduled tracheostomy is a procedure of proven benefits, although it is considered a method that implies high risk of spraying. The aim of this work was to provide, on the basis of updated studies, a clinical practice guide aimed at determining the ideal moment to carry out this surgical act, taking into account determining factors. By taking the surgical decision, respecting the criteria described in the proposed guide, it was possible to prevent, to a greater extent, the intrahospital contagion.   Keywords: COVID-19, Pandemic, Tracheostomy