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To the Editor.—The term tracheotomy has been generally accepted as the correct terminology for the procedure which is used to establish an airway through an opening in the neck. Occasionally, where a permanent opening has been established, the term tracheostomy has been applicable.
In recent years, the word tracheostomy has been more frequently used by the general surgeons and by some otolaryngologists. This has created a certain amount of confusion in hospital record rooms where the terms tracheostomy and tracheotomy are used interchangeably for the same type procedure.
Although I recognize that probably either word would be acceptable, I would like to know what the Editorial Board of the Archives feels is the preferred spelling.