Needle vs surgical cricothyroidotomy: a short cut to effective ventilation

摘要: Cricothyroidotomy can be performed using three techniques. This literature review seeks to determine which is more appropriate for use in prehospital can't intubate/can't ventilate scenarios where laryngeal mask airways prove ineffective. The common approach of inserting a 14-gauge cannula and low-pressure ventilation via intermittent occlusion an opening oxygen tubing (15 l x min(-1) flow) results ineffective within 60 s or less, depending on the degree airway obstruction. In absence high upper obstruction, effective if attached pressure (45 psi) jet ventilator, but such devices are rare UK practice. A self-inflating bag used with cuffed tube inserted through horizontal scalpel incision provides sustained adequate ventilation, has relatively low complication rate compared needle cricothyroidotomy skill that easily taught paramedics, nurses doctors.