Etymed
cricothyrotomy
Definition
Surgical incision through the cricoid cartilage and thyroid cartilage to establish an airway
Clinical context
A 28-year-old trauma patient presents with severe respiratory distress due to massive facial trauma and upper airway obstruction. The patient is unable to maintain a patent airway despite multiple attempts at endotracheal intubation. Cricothyrotomy is performed emergently to secure the airway and allow ventilation. A 12-gauge needle is inserted through the cricothyroid membrane, and a catheter is advanced to establish ventilation.
Mnemonic
Cricothyrotomy: Cut through the cricoid, use the thyroid to get airway access