Comparison of Percutaneous Dilational Tracheostomy and Surgical Tracheostomy Outcomes and Complications: A Retrospective Study

Background: Tracheostomy is an alternate method of airway management that has the potential to alleviate patient discomfort and reduce the amount of work required to maintain the airway. Aim: to examine surgical tracheostomy (ST) versus percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) in terms of their respective risks and outcomes . Methods: The research has used a retrospective review of medical records. The sample has included critically sick patients who have had an ST tracheostomy or PDT. Appropriate statistical approaches were used to gather and analyze data on outcomes and complications. Results: The study included 106 patients (66 PDT, 40 ST). No significant differences were found in demographic characteristics or comorbidities between groups. PDT showed a significantly shorter ICU stay (38.2 ± 22.4 days) compared to ST (56.1 ± 30.6 days, p < 0.001). Weaning success was higher in the PDT group (68.2%) than ST (55.0%), although not statistically significant (p = 0.173). Complication rates were similar between the two groups with no statistically significant differences. Conclusions: PDT appears to be a safe and efficient alternative to ST, with a notable reduction in ICU stay and a trend toward faster weaning. Clinical decision-making should consider individual patient characteristics, operator expertise, and institutional resources.