Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
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Awake tracheotomy is performed for patients with impending airway obstruction. Few studies to date have addressed the issues surrounding awake tracheotomy. We sought to review the indications, complications, and outcome of awake tracheotomy for urgent airway control. ⋯ Awake tracheotomy should be performed for impending airway obstruction and in a timely manner before complete obstruction occurs.