Cricothyroidotomy is described as which of the following?

• A. An oropharyngeal suction technique
• B. A tracheal intubation method
• C. Creation of a temporary airway by making an opening between the thyroid and cricoid cartilages
• D. A method to measure oxygen saturation

Answer: (C)

Cricothyroidotomy establishes a temporary airway by creating an opening through the cricothyroid membrane, which lies between the thyroid and cricoid cartilages. This is an emergency surgical airway technique used when rapid ventilation is needed and traditional endotracheal intubation is not possible or feasible due to obstruction, trauma, or swelling. By bypassing the upper airway, it provides direct access to the trachea to ventilate. It is not about suctioning the oropharynx, not a method to place a tracheal tube through the mouth or nose, and not a way to measure oxygen saturation.