What is the procedure that involves creating a new opening in the windpipe?

The procedure that involves creating a new opening in the windpipe is known as a tracheostomy. This surgical procedure is performed to provide an airway in situations where the usual pathway for breathing is obstructed or needs to be bypassed. During a tracheostomy, an incision is made in the trachea (the windpipe), and a tube is inserted to allow air to enter the lungs directly.

While tracheotomy is a term that can sometimes be used interchangeably with tracheostomy, its definition is broader and refers more specifically to the act of cutting into the trachea rather than the creation of a permanent opening. In contrast, procedures like bronchoscopy and laryngoscopy involve the use of a scope to visualize and examine the airways and larynx, without creating an external opening in the trachea. Therefore, tracheostomy accurately represents the correct response as it specifically addresses the creation of a new opening in the windpipe for the purpose of establishing a stable airway.