Question

What is the primary purpose of a cricothyrotomy or coniotomy procedure?

A) To treat a dental emergency
B) To perform a tracheostomy
C) To access the carotid artery
D) To address a fracture in the larynx

Answer 1

The main purpose of a cricothyrotomy or coniotomy procedure is to create an emergency airway in situations where intubation is not possible, which most closely aligns with performing a type of tracheostomy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary purpose of a cricothyrotomy or coniotomy procedure is to provide an emergency airway when traditional intubation is not possible, typically due to obstruction or trauma. This procedure is an incision made through the skin and the cricothyroid membrane to insert a tube directly into the trachea for ventilation, bypassing the upper airway obstructions. Given the available options, the closest answer is B) To perform a tracheostomy, although technically a cricothyrotomy or coniotomy is an emergency procedure, and a tracheostomy is a more planned and sustainable airway access. It does not involve treating a dental emergency, accessing the carotid artery, or addressing a fracture in the larynx directly.