Tracheostomy

Landmarks for tracheostomy

1. Cricoid cartilage - It is a circular cartilage below the thyroid cartilage and is the shape of a tyre. It is tne only cartilage in larynx and trachea which forms a complete ring and also it forms the widest ring and the most prominent one.





2. Suprasternal notch - Make an incision two finger breadth above supra sternal notch.





3. Strap muscles - these are separated vertically by blunt dissection.





4. Isthmus of thyroid gland - If possible retract it upwards or if not put two clamps, cut and transfix it.





5. Tracheal rings - palpate and confirm by aspirating with a syringe.