Fig. 7
Stepwise closure of tracheostomy and postoperative respiratory support; (A) Supine repositioning of the recipient after anatomical thoracotomy closure; (B) Placement of 6 − 0 multifilament sutures through both proximal and distal tracheal margins at midline and bilateral points to prepare for tracheostomy closure; (C) Approximation and ligation of the anterior tracheal wall following spontaneous resumption of diaphragmatic movement; (D) Delivery of high-flow oxygen via a procedure-specific respiratory mask during the post-extubation phase to support recovery from anesthesia.
