An emergency procedure, cricothyrotomy is performed in order to establish an airway. The procedure uses an incision made through the skin and between the thyroid and cricoid cartilages in order to access the trachea.
Also Known As:
- Emergency airway puncture
- Thyrocricotomy
- Cricothyroidotomy
- Tracheotomy
- Emergency airway surgery
Conditions Treated with Cricothyrotomy:
Cricothyrotomy is performed in cases of failed oral and nasal intubation, facial trauma, anaphylaxis and a foreign object blocking the airway.
There are no comparable non-surgical alternatives to cricothyrotomy. Tracheostomy is a surgical alternative to the procedure.
Anesthesia with Cricothyrotomy:
Cricothyrotomy is performed with a local anesthetic if the patient is conscious.
Potential Complications from Cricothyrotomy:
Possible risks following cricothyrotomy include bleeding, thyroid membrane perforation, subglottic stenosis, pulmonary aspiration, tracheal stenosis, laryngeal nerve injury and esophageal fistula. It is also possible to experience a hoarse voice, larynx damage and a fracture of the thyroid cartilage.
Prognosis after Cricothyrotomy:
The prognosis for a positive end result following cricothyrotomy is very good.
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