An easily constructed cricothyroidotomy device for emergency airway management

The device is constructed by removing the white plastic connector from the male end of an intravenous line tubing. The standard 15-mm adaptor is removed from a pediatric endtracheal tube, size 5.5 mm to 6.5 mm, and pushed over the blunt end of the intravenous line connector. Although the pointed end of the connector can be used to pierce the skin, fascia, and cricothyroid membrane to establish an airway, the placement of the device is facilitated by first making a stab incision with a scalpel. Ventilation can be accomplished by direct hookup to anesthetic tubing, or to a bag valve apparatus (such as Ambu).