Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2025

Mixed Reality Assisted Radical Endoscopic Thyroidectomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
Critical care paramedics' experiences of performing an emergency scalpel cricothyroidotomy: a qualitative study
Duncan Aldred1, Mark Durham1, Nora Prokop1
1South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.
Introduction:
A scalpel cricothyroidotomy or front of neck access (FONA) is a rarely performed part of airway management for when other steps have failed and the patient cannot be intubated or ventilated. Increasingly advanced and specialist paramedics are being trained to perform this procedure within the pre-hospital environment.
Methods:
Advanced and specialist paramedics within a UK ambulance service that had performed a FONA were invited to participate in this qualitative research. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather information on the participants' experiences. This information underwent thematic analysis to develop codes which were then grouped into themes.
Results:
Seven participants were interviewed between December 2020 and January 2021. Three main themes were identified: the procedure, isolation and training. The main complications described were bleeding in excess of expectations, moving structures, surgical emphysema and a false track.
Conclusion:
Complications appeared common; training to perform a FONA should include complications and an approach to their management similar to other airway management procedures. Isolation was a common theme within this study, however remote support from a peer appeared beneficial.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask...
Tracheostomy Suctioning I: Pre-Procedural Steps
Equipment Required
First, gather all necessary equipment: a sterile suction catheter, a sterile disposable container, sterile gloves, a towel or...
Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...

