Hover to pan and click to magnify. Click again to pan at full screen.
Ala Jamal MD, Robert Bishop MD, Julie Fowler MD
University of California - Davis Health, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Sacramento CA 95678
ABSTRACT:
Surgical cricothyrotomy is a critical but rarely performed procedure in emergency airway management. Limited hands-on experience may leave anesthesiology residents lacking confidence, potentially delaying life-saving interventions. Cadaver-based training enhances procedural proficiency, preparing residents for real-life emergencies.
Senior CA-3 anesthesiology residents at the University of California Davis Health participated in a structured workshop designed to replicate real-world emergency conditions. The training included didactic instructions, anatomical identification, and hands-on practice using the Melker Cuffed Emergency Cricothyrotomy Catheter Set. Each resident performed the procedure twice on separate cadavers, reinforcing technique retention. Faculty provided real-time feedback on instrument handling, procedural steps, and airway management strategies.
Pre- and post-training surveys assessed confidence, knowledge, and technique using the Likert scale. Over two years, 22 residents completed the workshop (100% survey response rate). Post-training data demonstrated significant improvement in confidence and competence (Spearman’s rho = 0.9, Wilcoxon p < 0.001), with high resident satisfaction. One participant successfully performed an emergent surgical cricothyrotomy during a real-life Code Blue event, reinforcing the training’s clinical value.
Cadaver-based surgical cricothyrotomy training bridges the gap between theory and practice, equipping residents with critical airway management skills. The successful real-world application highlights its importance in anesthesiology education, supporting broader integration into residency programs nationwide.
DISQUS COMMENTS WILL BE SHOWN ONLY WHEN YOUR SITE IS ONLINE