How Do You Spell CRICOTRACHEOTOMY?

1. Cricotracheotomy is a medical procedure that involves making an incision or a surgically created opening in the cricoid cartilage in order to establish a direct airway access to the trachea. The cricoid cartilage is a firm, ring-shaped structure located at the lower part of the larynx (voice box) in the neck.

   Cricotracheotomy is usually performed when there is an obstructed airway or when other methods of securing the airway have failed. This procedure is commonly used in emergency situations or as a last resort intervention.

   During a cricotracheotomy, a healthcare professional creates a small incision through the skin and soft tissues of the front of the neck, just below the Adam's apple (thyroid cartilage). The cricoid cartilage is then identified and a small hole is made in it, followed by the insertion of a cannula or tube that allows for the direct passage of air into the trachea, bypassing any obstruction. This procedure allows for immediate ventilation, ensuring the patient's oxygenation.

   Cricotracheotomy is a specialized technique reserved for critical situations and is typically performed by a trained healthcare professional. Proper training and expertise are essential to ensure the safety and success of this procedure. Cricotracheotomy can be life-saving in emergency scenarios where maintaining a patent airway is crucial to the survival of the patient.

2. Division of the cricoid cartilage and the upper rings of the trachea, for respiratory relief in case of closure of the glottis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for CRICOTRACHEOTOMY

The word "cricotracheotomy" is derived from the combination of three main elements:

1. Crico-: It originates from the Greek word "krikos", which means "ring". In human anatomy, it specifically refers to the cricoid cartilage, which is a ring-shaped cartilage that forms part of the larynx.

2. Tracheo-: This part comes from the Greek word "tracheia", which means "windpipe". The trachea is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx to the bronchi and allows air to pass in and out of the lungs.

3. -tomy: This suffix is derived from the Greek word "tomē", meaning "a cut" or "incision". It is commonly used in medical terms to indicate a surgical procedure involving cutting or incision.