Introduction:

 Percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) has replaced the surgical approach of airway establishment in many intensive care units and is mainly indicated for elective use. However the role in emergency condition has yet to be adopted. A COPD patient with severe breathlessness had unanticipated difficult intubation however this was successfully managed with PT. Our case demonstrates the feasibility of PT technique in patients who require emergency airway access, therefore in this article we have illustrated a short case report to highlight the role of emergency PT.

Conclusion:

PT, though considered to be an elective option for airway management, may be used safely in emergency situation, however, it requires appropriate training and skill.