cricothyroid membrane

Full Definition

The cricothyroid membrane is a fibroelastic structure that spans the gap between the thyroid cartilage superiorly and the cricoid cartilage inferiorly. In head and neck oncology, this membrane is clinically important as it represents the boundary between supraglottic and glottic cancers, influencing staging and treatment decisions. It also serves as the preferred site for emergency surgical airway procedures when upper airway obstruction prevents intubation.

In Context

• "The tumor had breached the cricothyroid membrane, upstaging the lesion to T4a." — Pathology report
• "Emergency cricothyrotomy was performed through the cricothyroid membrane." — Emergency department note