53.1 Indications

• Respiratory obstruction

• Respiratory failure

• Respiratory paralysis

• Removal of retained secretions

• Reduction of dead space

53.2 Cricothyroidotomy

• Indications

Suspicion of acute upper airway problem

Worsening stridor

Reducing self-ventilation

• Procedure

Extend neck and palpate cricothyroid membrane

Midline incision or IV cannula

Convert to formal tracheostomy asap

53.3 Tubes

• Inner tube

• Cuffed/uncuffed