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Am I wrong or does there appear to be a "hole" at the base of her throat?

Here's a photo of Terri which shows what seems to be a hole -- yes, I've noticed that too.

My friend has a hole like that. She was in a bad accident and told me it was where the feeding tube was. There are two ways of using a feeding tube (maybe more). It could be a tracheotomy (sp?) or something else, but I haven't read she had any breathing problems associated with her condition.

Am I wrong or does there appear to be a "hole" at the base of her throat?

Definition: A tracheostomy is an opening surgically created through the neck into the trachea (windpipe). A tube is usually placed through this opening to provide an airway, and to remove secretions from the lungs. This tube is called a tracheostomy tube or trach tube.

General anesthesia is used. The neck is cleaned and draped. Surgical cuts are made to expose the tough cartilage rings that make up the outer wall of the trachea. The surgeon then cuts two of these rings and inserts a tracheostomy tube.

Indications: A tracheostomy may be performed because of:

An inherited abnormality of the larynx or trachea
Severe neck or mouth injuries
Breathing corrosive material smoke or steam
A large object blocking the airway
Paralysis of the muscles that affect swallowing
Long-term unconsciousness or coma
Risks: The risks for any anesthesia are: Reactions to medications, Problems breathing,

The risks for any surgery are: Bleeding, Infection, Additional risks include:

Erosion of the trachea (rare), Scar tissue in the trachea, Expectations after surgery:

If the tracheostomy is temporary, the tube will eventually be removed. Healing will occur quickly, leaving a minimal scar. If the tracheostomy tube is permanent, the hole remains open and may require surgical closure when no longer needed. Convalescence: Most patients require 1 to 3 days to adapt to breathing through a tracheostomy tube. It will take some time to learn how to communicate with others. Initially, it may be impossible for the patient to talk or make sounds.

After training and practice, most patients can learn to talk with a trach tube. Patients or parents learn how to take care of the tracheostomy during the hospital stay. Home-care service may also be available.

Normal lifestyles are encouraged and most activities can be resumed. When outside, a loose covering (a scarf or other protection) for the tracheostomy stoma (hole) is recommended. Patients must adhere to other safety precautions regarding exposure to water, aerosols, powder, or food particles as well.

Tracheostomy

The area at the base of Terri's neck is an old tracheostomy (breating tube) site.

That picture is so....well, I'm not sure how to describe it. Terri's in there. There is a pleading in her eyes. There is focus. I have been around patients who are comatose or who are vegetative. They don't have "expression" in their eyes.