Final answer:
Tracheostomy and endotracheal intubation are procedures to maintain clear airways under general anesthesia, typically conducted by anesthesiologists or EMTs. They involve inserting a tube into the trachea to bypass respiratory obstructions and ensure adequate breathing during and immediately after surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tracheostomy is a medical procedure performed by a healthcare professional where a tube is inserted into the trachea to maintain an open airway. An endotracheal intubation is a related procedure used to allow a person to breathe when the respiratory system is obstructed. During this procedure, healthcare professionals, typically anesthesiologists or emergency medical technicians (EMTs), insert a long, plastic tube through the patient's mouth or nose to ensure air bypasses the obstruction and reaches the lungs.
Under general anesthesia, the muscles necessary for breathing and moving the tongue are affected, which can lead to airway obstruction. During surgery, to avoid complications such as tongue relaxation or insufficient respiratory muscle movement, endotracheal intubation is employed. The tube is placed into the trachea to maintain an open airway, allowing breathing to continue unimpeded.
After the surgery, the anesthesiologist will adjust the mix of gases to allow the patient to regain consciousness and recover control of their respiration. Typically, the patient may experience a sore or scratchy throat post-operation, but this is temporary. The tracheostomy or intubation ensures that the patient's airways remain clear throughout the procedure and during the initial recovery period.