Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
[Invasive techniques in emergency medicine. IV. Cricothyrotomy in emergency situations]
T S Mutzbauer1, W Keul, M Bernhard
1Klinik für Kiefer- und Gesichtschirurgie, Universitätsspital, Zürich, Schweiz. till.mutzbauer@usz.ch
Abstract:
Cricothyrotomy is a very invasive technique to secure the airway in an emergency but is irreplacable when less invasive techniques fail or cannot be instigated under the prevailing circumstances. Various techniques have been reported which can be subdivided into anatomical-surgical preparation or puncture techniques. The preferred strategy is mostly oriented towards the departmental standard procedure which will be decided by the clinical situation. Training for each procedure can be carried out in intensive care departments, and using autopsy material or a manekin. Various methods of cricothyrotomy will be discussed here, and additionally an anatomical preparation and two puncture techniques will be demonstrated in detail.
Related Concept Videos
Trachea
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of the...
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Endotracheal Intubation I: Procedure
The ET tube comprises various components, including a standard adaptor to attach a bag-valve-mask (BVM) or ventilator, a cuff, a pilot balloon, and radiopaque markings along its length to measure the insertion distance. The tube sizes...
Tracheostomy Suctioning II: Procedure
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques

