Cricothyroid membrane identification — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyAnatomyCricothyroid membrane identificationFRCA Primary

During a cannot-intubate cannot-oxygenate emergency, the anaesthetist palpates between the thyroid cartilage and cricoid cartilage before front-of-neck access. Which structure is being identified?

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Correct answer: C — Cricothyroid membrane

The cricothyroid membrane lies between the thyroid and cricoid cartilages and is the target for emergency cricothyrotomy. The thyrohyoid membrane is more superior and transmits the internal laryngeal nerve. The vocal ligament is within the larynx and is not the surface landmark for emergency access. Accurate landmarking is vital because hypoxia makes repeated attempts hazardous.

Reference: RCoA Primary FRCA Syllabus; airway anatomy texts