Timing of tracheostomy in neuromuscular patients with chronic respiratory failure.

Noninvasive and invasive mechanical ventilation play a fundamental role in the treatment of neuromuscular patients with respiratory failure. At present no guidelines concerning timing of tracheostomy in neuromuscular patients are available. The authors summarize the factors to be considered in the decision-making process, as illustrated during an international meeting (Tradate, Italy; March 1994) held with the participation of a group of authorities on respiratory care of neuromuscular patients.