Establishment and Application of Cricothyrotomy In Vivo

Abstract

Abstract Background: Cricothyrotomy 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. Methods: The 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. The satisfaction and application value of all physicians with this animal model were evaluated using percentage scores. Results: Through repeated practice, compared with the time spent in the first round of the operation (60 ± 17 seconds), the time spent in the second round of the operation (44 ± 14 seconds) and the time spent in the third round of the operation (36 ± 11 seconds) were significantly shortened (P < 0.05). Finally, 95% of all physicians were very satisfied with this animal model, and 5% were relatively satisfied. In addition, 95% of all physicians rated the application value of this animal model as excellent, and 5% rated it as good. Conclusion: The 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.