My mum is having a tracheostomy today after ecmo . Anyone know why they couldn't do this in the beginning?

[ellie2014]

My mum is having a tracheostomy today after ecmo . Anyone know why they couldn't do this in the beginning? She has abeen in for nearly 3 weeks now and has had breathing mask for 2 days, the ventilator then the ecmo and now this . She has has a high temperature (39) for 4 days and is bloated and can't move hands or arms . She also has an infection and they don't know what it is . I feel like she has been through so much and her body abused . I know it's all to get her 'better' but the tracheostomy sounds like the kinder way and I'm wondering why it wasn't used in the beginning . The doctor says that it is the way and order they do things ....?

[Luckyone]

I was on a ventilator for 19 days before I had a tracheotomy my wife was told this was because I was so critically ill and unstable, had they done it before it's unlikely I would have survived, it was another 64 days before I had it removed.

Bloating is quite common it's fluid retention in the body I'm told I looked like the Michelin man but I have no idea as I had the first 7 weeks in ICU completely missing, don't be afraid to ask questions about your mum if you have concerns and just being there can be a great support for her..

Best wishes in her recovery.

[Pressuresupport18]

I want you to know that I am praying for you, your baby, and your Mother. I am praying for your whole entire family. I want you to know that I have been listening to Patrik's Podcasts on the intensive Care Hotline and I know this is profoundly hard. I have prayed so much. I must admit, I have cried because it is so saddening to know about what your family is going through. You and your family are truely going through a LOT, but I KNOW that God can and will help you get through this. I KNOW IT. I am so glad that now your Mother was able to get her trach out of her neck, and that she while still going through a lot, is doing better. The Journey through the Intensive Care Unit can be a long one, but THERE IS AN END. THERE IS AN END.

[Pressuresupport18]

God's blessings be with you!