- Cricothyrotomy, also called coniotomy
- In case of upper airway obstruction with unsuccessful intubation
- Airway is opened through cricothyroid ligament between the thyroid and cricoid cartilage
- Should be converted to tracheotomy when possible
- Indications
- Angioedema
- Foreign body in upper airway
- Severe facial trauma
- Procedure
- Transverse surgical incision into skin between thyroid and cricoid cartilages
- Incision through skin, spf cervical fascia, deep cervical fascia, pre-tracheal fascia, median cricothyroid ligament
- Insertion of catheter