emergent cricothyroidotomy
Pronunciation: kry-ko-THY-royd-AH-tuh-mee
Emergency surgical airway created through the cricothyroid membrane when intubation fails or is impossible.
Full Definition
A life-saving procedure performed when endotracheal intubation cannot be achieved and the patient requires immediate airway access. The procedure involves making an incision through the skin and cricothyroid membrane, then inserting a tube or cannula to establish ventilation. It is indicated in 'cannot intubate, cannot ventilate' scenarios, severe facial trauma, or massive upper airway hemorrhage. The cricothyroid membrane location between the thyroid and cricoid cartilages provides rapid, relatively safe access to the trachea below vocal cord level.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from 'cricothyrotomy' by the 'emergent' modifier; the procedure name can also be spelled 'cricothyrotomy'.
In Context
- "Massive facial trauma necessitated emergent cricothyroidotomy in the emergency department." — trauma case report
- "After failed intubation attempts, an emergent cricothyroidotomy was performed using the scalpel-bougie technique." — airway management protocol