In ICU, Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy (PDT) is often performed to facilitate weaning from mechanical ventilation, reduce anatomical dead space, avoid laryngeal injury and aid in management of tracheobronchial and pulmonary secretions.
There is still controversy over optimal timing and case selection for PDT. Some organisations have helped to clarify the situation for practicing intensivists.
In 2010 the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society (ANZICS) produced its Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy Consensus Statement, to represent best current practice in Australia and New Zealand.
This can be downloaded from here.