Cricothyroidotomy Training Model Using Supplies in Austere Deployed Environment.

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Surgical Training
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Cricothyroidotomy is a critical, though rarely performed, emergency procedure.
• Effective training is essential for surgical teams, particularly in resource-limited or deployed environments.
• Existing training models (cadaveric, animal, synthetic) are often unavailable in austere settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a simple, inexpensive, and reproducible cricothyroidotomy training model.
• To assess the model's impact on healthcare professionals' confidence and proficiency in performing cricothyroidotomy.
• To provide a practical training solution for deployed medical personnel.

Main Methods:

• A cricothyroidotomy training model was constructed using readily available hospital supplies (spirometer tubing, tape, latex bandages).
• A voluntary training session was conducted at a deployed military medical facility.
• Participants completed pre- and post-training surveys assessing their experience, knowledge, and confidence, and performed timed cricothyroidotomies on the model.

Main Results:

• Confidence in performing cricothyroidotomy significantly improved from a mean of 2.78 to 3.63 (P < .005).
• Mean time to cannulation decreased from 101.6 seconds on the first attempt to 62.6 seconds on a second attempt 4 weeks later.
• The model received a high usefulness rating (mean 4.77/5), indicating strong participant satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• A simple, portable, and inexpensive cricothyroidotomy training model can be effectively constructed from common supplies.
• This model enhances both confidence and procedural speed for cricothyroidotomy, proving valuable in deployed environments.
• While realism is limited, the model serves as an adequate substitute when advanced training materials are unavailable.