Background Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is a life-saving measure for traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, survivors may remain in a vegetative or minimally conscious state and require tracheostomy to facilitate airway management. In this cross-sectional analytical study, we investigated the predictors for tracheostomy requirement and influence of tracheostomy timing on outcomes in craniectomised survivors after TBI. Methods We enrolled 160 patients undergoing DC and surviving >7 days after TBI in this 3-year retrospective study. The patients were subdivided into 2 groups based on whether tracheostomy was (N = 38) or was not (N = 122) performed. We identified intergroup differences in early clinical parameters. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for independent predictors of the need for tracheostomy. Early tracheostomy was defined as the performance of the procedure within the first 10 days after DC. Intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospital stay, mortality, and Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) were analysed according to the timing of the tracheostomy procedure. Results After TBI, 24% of craniectomised survivors required tracheostomy. In the multivariate logistic regression mode, the significant factors related to the need for tracheostomy were age (odds ratio = 1.041; p = 0.002), the Glasgow coma score (GCS) at admission (odds ratio = 0.733; p = 0.005), and normal status of basal cisterns (odds ratio = 0.000; p = 0.008). The ICU stay was shorter for patients with early tracheostomy than for those undergoing late tracheostomy (p = 0.004). The timing of tracheostomy had no influence on the hospital stay, mortality, or GOS. Conclusion Age and admission GCS were independent predictors of the need for tracheostomy in craniectomised survivors after TBI. If tracheostomy is necessary, an earlier procedure may assist in patient care.
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