Abstract
This study aimed to determine current practices and attitudes towards percutaneous tracheostomy (PCT). Two hundred and fifty eight general adult intensive care departments were surveyed. The results show that the technique remains popular, that the use of routine fibreoscopy is increasing (80.6%), and that it is considered safe. Consultant staff most commonly provide the service (91.2%) for the commonest indication of slow weaning from ventilatory support (56%). There are several kits available for performing PCT. Today, the most commonly used kit is the Ciaglia Cook kit (46.6%).