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CICO – surgical airway — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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HardRespiratoryCICO – surgical airwayRACP Paediatrics

A 14-year-old with severe maxillofacial injury cannot be intubated or ventilated with BMV or LMA. What is the appropriate emergency surgical airway?

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Correct answer: B — Tracheostomy

In children >8 years in CICO, surgical cricothyroidotomy is preferred (same as adults). In <8 years, needle cricothyroidotomy is preferred due to smaller cricothyroid membrane.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – Difficult Airway CPG