Early Tracheotomy Versus Prolonged Endotracheal Intubation in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Patients

Early Tracheotomy Versus Prolonged Endotracheal Intubation in Intensive Care Unit Patients

This is a phase III trial comparing early tracheotomy versus prolonged endotracheal intubation in intensive care unit patients needing prolonged ventilatory support.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients under ventilation support for at least 4 days
• Patients needing ventilatory support for > 7 days
• Age > 18 years
• Informed consent signed

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients previously tracheotomised
• Major hemorrhagic risk
• Patients previously randomised in a trial