SKILLS Lab

Question 1

Tracheostomy

Answer 1

A tracheostomy is an artificial opening into the windpipe (trachea) that is held open by a tracheostomy tube. This eases breathing.

Question 2

Laryngectomy

Answer 2

Removal of the larynx and separation of the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus.

In a total laryngectomy the entire larynx is removed and in a partial laryngectomy only a portion is taken out.

The laryngectomee breathes through an opening in the neck known as a stoma.

Question 3

Nasogastric Tube

Answer 3

A naso-gastric (NG) tube is a thin, plastic tube that is inserted into one of your nostrils, down the back of the throat into the stomach.

Used for shorter term feeding, usually 1-2 weeks.

Question 4

PEG Tube

Answer 4

Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube

Feeding tube inserted into the stomach through the abdomen wall.

Used for those who cannot take food or fluid orally.

Used for long term feeding, generally more than a month.

Question 5

Radiologically Inserted Gastrostomy (RIG)

insertion

Answer 5

Used for enteral feeding. Used in patients whose line cannot be inserted with an endoscope (for example those that have bulky esophageal tumors or those whose airway would be obstructed by an endoscope).

Question 6

Fistula

Answer 6

An abnormal or surgically made passage between a hollow or tubular organ and the body surface, or between two hollow or tubular organs.