[Tracheotomy in children.  Indications, major surgical principles, importance of nursing]. 
Tracheotomy in children has two main fields of indication: 1) obstructions of the upper respiratory tract, the main cause being today the post-intubation stenosis; 2) long term mechanical ventilation.  When performed in good conditions, with adapted care, there are few complications, among them the accidental denaculation being the most worrying.  When long-term tracheotomy is needed, parent-education, together with special equipment and adapted environment may allow the return of the tracheotomised child at home in secure conditions.  Special attention with preventive measures during intubation is recommended in order to reduce the number of tracheotomies for post-intubation stenosis.