Which of the following are the advantages of a tracheostomy airway?

A tracheostomy offers several significant advantages when managing patients requiring prolonged airway support. One of the primary benefits is the ability to provide long-term mechanical ventilation. Unlike endotracheal tubes, which are typically intended for short-term use, a tracheostomy offers a more stable and comfortable airway option for patients who may need extended respiratory support.

Tracheostomies reduce airway resistance due to their wider diameter compared to narrower endotracheal tubes, which can enhance airflow and reduce the work of breathing. This makes them particularly beneficial in providing mechanical ventilation over an extended period since they are generally more comfortable for patients and associated with lower risks of complications, such as airway trauma.

While other choices mention additional advantages, the focus on long-term mechanical ventilation as a core benefit of a tracheostomy underlines its critical role in ventilatory support, especially in patients with chronic respiratory failure.