Final answer:
The risk of using a cricothyrotomy for more than 72 hours includes complications such as infection, scarring, and damage to surrounding structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The risk of using a cricothyrotomy for more than 72 hours is the potential for complications such as infection, scarring, and damage to surrounding structures.
A cricothyrotomy is a procedure in which a small incision is made in the front of the neck to create an airway. It is typically used as a temporary emergency measure when other methods of maintaining an airway are not possible.
Keeping the cricothyrotomy in place for an extended period of time can increase the risk of infection and the formation of scar tissue, which may cause long-term breathing difficulties. Additionally, leaving the cricothyrotomy in place for an extended period of time may also result in damage to the surrounding structures.