Establishment and application of cricothyrotomy in vivo

BackgroundCricothyrotomy is a procedure performed to establish an airway in critical airway events. It is performed only rarely and anesthesiologists are often unprepared when called upon to perform it. This study aimed to simulate cricothyrotomy using pig larynx and trachea models to help anesthesiologists master cricothyrotomy and improve the ability to establish cricothyrotomy quickly.MethodsThe porcine larynx and trachea were dissected and covered with pigskin to simulate the structure of the anterior neck of a human patient. An animal model of cricothyrotomy was established. Forty anesthesiologists were randomly divided into four groups. Each physician performed three rounds of cricothyrotomy, and recorded the time to accomplish each successful operation. After training the cricothyrotomy procedure, a questionnaire survey was conducted for the participating residents using a Likert scale. The participants were asked to score the utility of the training course on a scale of 1 ((minimum) to 5 ((maximum).ResultsThrough repeated practice, compared with the time spent in the first round of the operation (67 & PLUSMN; 29 s), the time spent in the second round of the operation (47 & PLUSMN; 21 s) and the time spent in the third round of the operation (36 & PLUSMN; 11 s) were significantly shortened (P < 0.05). Results of the survey after training were quite satisfied, reflecting increased the ability of proficiency in locating the cricothyroid membrane and performing a surgical cricothyrotomy.ConclusionThe porcine larynx and trachea model is an excellent animal model for simulating and practicing cricothyrotomy, helping anesthesiologists to master cricothyrotomy and to perform it proficiently when required.

Automated summary

This study used pig larynx and trachea models to simulate and practice cricothyrotomy, helping anesthesiologists master this technique quickly. Through repeated practice, the operation time was significantly reduced and participants were highly satisfied with the training course. Thus, the pig larynx and trachea model is highly effective for simulating and practicing cricothyrotomy.