I am an 81 year old retired general surgeon and have COPD. I have had a transtracheal catheter for two years now and wouldn't trade it for the nasal cannula ever. I am active,  play golf twice a week, spend 90 minutes at pulmonary rehab twice weekly, build model ships and have a wood working shop. I can answer most questions about the transtracheal catheter such as operative procedure, post-op and long term care. I will not give any medical advice.