[Evaluation of a training method for transtracheal punction for emergency oxygenation]

Transtracheal oxygenation is a lifesaving technique in a cannot-ventilate, cannot-intubate situation, in setting percutaneous transtracheal catheter.

To assess training for cricoid membrane puncture performed with a Ravussin needle.

Ten residents in anaesthesiology nearing completion of their training participated in the study. Following a didactic session and a video demonstration, participants performed percutaneous transtracheal punctures on fresh cadavers. Success rate and time to perform the puncture were measured. Results are expressed as mean+/-SD.

By the third attempt, all procedures were successful. Mean performance time at the first attempt was 31.2+/-21.8 s, progressively decreasing with the following attempts to reach a plateau by the third attempt (20.6+/-19.3s). Performance time varies with the cadaver's morphology and the ability to recognize anatomic landmarks. However, whatever the difficulty, performance time is 40 s or less by the third attempt.

Percutaneous transtracheal catheter setting is a life saving technique with which every anaesthesiologist should be familiar. Viewing a pedagogic videotape and training on cadavers provides a rapid and effective training method for cricoid membrane puncture. Four attempts seem necessary to obtain an optimal success rate.