This MRCS Part B station tests your knowledge of the anatomy of the thyroid gland and surrounding structures.
For more Anatomy practice, head to Acland's via the link above (Pass the MRCS members get access for free)
How would you perform a needle cricothryroid puncture?
- This is an emergency procedure.
- In as sterile conditions as possible, I would locate the cricothyroid membrane by running a finger down from the thyroid notch and palpating for the slight depression between it and the cricoid cartilage.
- I would insert a 12/14 gauge cannula connected to a syringe containing 1ml of air.
- Once I felt it go through the membrane, I would inject the air into the trachea to displace any skin plug, and remove the needle and secure the cannula in place.
- I would then connect it to an oxygen supply using a Y connector and commence jet insufflation (using oxygen tubing with a small hole in it) at a rate of 1 second on, 4 seconds off.
- I would ensure help was on its way so that a more definitive airway could be established.
