42 - Utilizing Cadavers to Enhance Anatomical Knowledge of Cricothyrotomy Simulation Training

Poster Board Number: 42
There are separate poster presentation times for odd and even posters.
Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Co-authors:

Rakesh Ravikumaran Nair, MD., MPH., MBA - Assistant Professor, Medical Education, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Abstract Body :
Introduction:Cricothyrotomy is an infrequent but essential emergency procedure used to secure an airway in the setting of inaccessible endotracheal intubation. From 2016-2018 0.34% of patients required cricothyrotomy. The low frequency and high complexity of the procedure may serve as an explanation for failure rates and complication rates. Potential complications include hemorrhage and damage to the anatomical structures. Most medical students and residents train this procedure using manikins which lack tissue and anatomical fidelity. Utilizing a cadaver for cricothyrotomy training provides a more representative experience, enhancing students’ anatomical knowledge and technical skills. Objective: To perform a cricothyrotomy to enhance anatomical knowledge and provide airway management training.Methods:Neck anatomy relative to the cricothyrotomy procedure was first identified including laryngeal prominence of the thyroid cartilage and cricoid cartilage. The skin and subcutaneous tissue were then dissected to reveal thyroid cartilage, cricoid cartilage, and lying between the cricothyroid membrane. Subcutaneous tissue and skin were placed back over the dissected neck and a needle cricothyrotomy was performed. Proper needle placement was confirmed visually after retracting the skin and subcutaneous tissue previously dissected.Conclusion:In conclusion, the utilization of cricothyrotomy training augments medical students’ understanding of the anatomical landmarks necessary to successfully perform the procedure. Beyond bolstering anatomical knowledge, using cadavers allows students to practice an uncommon procedure on a higher-fidelity simulation as compared to manikins.Significance and Implication: Utilizing cadavers to complement simulation-based education enhances cricothyrotomy training by enabling more detailed anatomy review, reinforcing procedural concepts, and heightening learner engagement and motivation.