A device and a method for the percutaneous placement of a tracheostomy tube composed of a handle, an inflatable balloon having a reversed truncated cone shape, a tube to inflate the balloon and another to contain a wire guide, a plastic structure in the middle between the balloon and the handle made of laminar elements to strengthen the apparatus movements of the handle transmitted to the tube and the balloon. Following placement of the tracheal tube, the balloon is deflated and the apparatus or device withdrawn.