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Development of a Novel Ultrasound-Guided Needle Cricothyroidotomy Device
Hidenobu Watanabe1, Harumasa Nakazawa1, Joho Tokumine1
1Department of Anesthesiology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Mitaka 181-8611, Japan.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|August 28, 2025
Summary
A new ultrasound-guided device for needle cricothyroidotomy achieved a 100% success rate in simulations. This precise technique shows promise for difficult airways, despite a longer procedure time.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Anesthesiology
- Medical Device Development
Background:
- Ultrasound guidance improves cricothyroid membrane identification accuracy over palpation.
- Real-time ultrasound-guided puncture offers enhanced precision.
- A dedicated device for ultrasound-guided needle cricothyroidotomy was lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel ultrasound-guided device for needle cricothyroidotomy.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, prospective, crossover simulation study used a porcine larynx model.
- Participants performed cricothyroidotomy using the novel device (US-G), a commercial kit (Pal-C), and scalpel incisional technique (Pal-SI).
- Primary outcome was puncture success rate; secondary outcomes included procedure time and tracheal injury rates.
Main Results:
- The US-G device achieved a 100% success rate, similar to Pal-C but higher than Pal-SI (95%).
- US-G procedure time was longer (80s) compared to Pal-C (22s) and Pal-SI (51s).
- No significant differences in tracheal wall injury rates were observed, with no severe injuries in the US-G group.
Conclusions:
- The novel ultrasound-guided device demonstrated high success and safety in simulations.
- Its precision may be advantageous for anticipated difficult airways, despite longer procedure times.
- Further clinical validation is recommended.
