Your trachea (windpipe) is part of your respiratory system. It’s about 4½ inches (11 centimeters) long and is at the front of your neck (see Figure 1). It runs from your larynx (voice box) to your lungs.

When you breathe, air travels from your nose or mouth into your larynx, through your trachea, and into your lungs. This path is called your airway.

A tracheostomy is a surgical opening in your trachea. It makes breathing easier and protects your airway from being blocked. You may need a tracheostomy if:

• A tumor is blocking or narrowing your airway.
• Secretions (mucus) are blocking or narrowing your airway.
• You’re having a surgery that’s likely to cause swelling that blocks or narrows your airway.

Your tracheostomy may be temporary or permanent. Your doctor will talk with you about how long you’ll need it.