The anterior cricothyroid ligament (median cricothyroid ligament) spans the midline of the cricothyroid membrane between the cricoid and thyroid cartilages, providing the elastic central component of the cricothyroid membrane.
Provides the central fibrous support of the cricothyroid membrane and is the landmark for emergency cricothyrotomy. The superior thyroid vessels run near its upper margin and must be avoided in surgical access.
Emergency cricothyrotomy is performed through the cricothyroid membrane — the anterior ligament is palpated as the firm midline structure between the thyroid notch and cricoid arch. Needle and surgical cricothyrotomy use this landmark for emergency airway access when intubation fails.
Incision through the anterior cricothyroid ligament providing emergency airway access in cannot-intubate-cannot-oxygenate scenarios, converted to formal tracheostomy within 72 hours.
Expanding haematoma within the cricothyroid membrane from anterior neck trauma causing progressive airway compromise requiring urgent surgical airway.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
