202k views
5 votes
What term describes a surgical incision in the neck that is held open by a metal or plastic tube through which a patient can breathe or be placed on a ventilator?

A. Tracheopharyngeal fistula
B. Stoma
C. Tracheostomy
D. Cricothyrotomy

User Ved
by
8.6k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

A tracheostomy is a surgical incision in the neck that is held open by a tube through which a patient can breathe or be placed on a ventilator.

Step-by-step explanation:

A surgical incision in the neck that is held open by a metal or plastic tube through which a patient can breathe or be placed on a ventilator is called a tracheostomy. A tracheostomy involves creating an opening, known as a stoma, in the front of the neck and inserting a tube into the trachea to bypass any obstruction and provide an alternate airway to the lungs. This procedure is commonly performed in situations where there is a blockage or injury in the respiratory system, or when long-term mechanical ventilation is needed.