The introduction of emergency cricothyroidotomy simulation training in Zimbabwe contributed to the saving of two lives

TY - JOUR

T1 - The introduction of emergency cricothyroidotomy simulation training in Zimbabwe contributed to the saving of two lives

AU - Avnstorp, M. B.

AU - Jensen, P. V. F.

AU - Dzongodza, T.

AU - Matinhira, N.

AU - Chidziva, C.

AU - Melchiors, J.

AU - Von Buchwald, C.

PY - 2016/10

Y1 - 2016/10

N2 - Background: In developing countries with limited access to ENT services, performing emergency cricothyroidotomy in patients with upper airway obstruction may be a life-saving last resort. An established Danish-Zimbabwean collaboration of otorhinolaryngologists enrolled Zimbabwean doctors into a video-guided simulation training programme on emergency cricothyroidotomy. This paper presents the positive effect of this training, illustrated by two case reports. Case reports: A 56-year-old female presented with upper airway obstruction due to a rapidly progressing infectious swelling of the head and neck progressing to cardiac arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated and a secure surgical airway was established via an emergency cricothyroidotomy, saving the patient. A 70-year-old male presented with upper airway obstruction secondary to intubation for an elective procedure. When extubated, the patient exhibited severe stridor followed by respiratory arrest. Re-intubation attempts were unsuccessful and emergency cricothyroidotomy was performed to secure the airway, preserving the life of the patient. Conclusion: Emergency cricothyroidotomy training should be considered for all surgeons, anaesthetists and, eventually, emergency and recovery room personnel in developing countries. A video-guided simulation training programme on emergency cricothyroidotomy in Zimbabwe proved its value in this regard.

AB - Background: In developing countries with limited access to ENT services, performing emergency cricothyroidotomy in patients with upper airway obstruction may be a life-saving last resort. An established Danish-Zimbabwean collaboration of otorhinolaryngologists enrolled Zimbabwean doctors into a video-guided simulation training programme on emergency cricothyroidotomy. This paper presents the positive effect of this training, illustrated by two case reports. Case reports: A 56-year-old female presented with upper airway obstruction due to a rapidly progressing infectious swelling of the head and neck progressing to cardiac arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated and a secure surgical airway was established via an emergency cricothyroidotomy, saving the patient. A 70-year-old male presented with upper airway obstruction secondary to intubation for an elective procedure. When extubated, the patient exhibited severe stridor followed by respiratory arrest. Re-intubation attempts were unsuccessful and emergency cricothyroidotomy was performed to secure the airway, preserving the life of the patient. Conclusion: Emergency cricothyroidotomy training should be considered for all surgeons, anaesthetists and, eventually, emergency and recovery room personnel in developing countries. A video-guided simulation training programme on emergency cricothyroidotomy in Zimbabwe proved its value in this regard.

KW - Airway Obstruction

KW - Developing Countries

KW - Emergency Cricothyroidotomy

KW - Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures

KW - Simulation Training

KW - Tracheostomy

U2 - 10.1017/S0022215116008719

DO - 10.1017/S0022215116008719

M3 - Journal article

C2 - 27608941

AN - SCOPUS:84986591589

SN - 0022-2151

VL - 130

SP - 923

EP - 927

JO - Journal of Laryngology and Otology

JF - Journal of Laryngology and Otology

IS - 10

ER -