A trach is done between the rings of the trachea, rather than between the cartilage of the larynx. Generally, a cric is used for emergent access as it is a little easier to access and a trach is used for long-term access.
A cricothyrotomy goes in the lower part of the larynx under the Adam's apple. A tracheostomy goes in a few centimeters below the larynx. A cric takes less time and equipment than a trach because it's easier to feel for the insertion site without having to cut through the front of the neck first, which is why it's typically a short-term intervention used in emergencies when the patient can't be intubated. A trach is more permanent.
This is going to sound dumb but what's difference between a surgical cricothyrotomy and a tracheostomy. (As you can tell I'm not in EMS lol)
A trach is done between the rings of the trachea, rather than between the cartilage of the larynx. Generally, a cric is used for emergent access as it is a little easier to access and a trach is used for long-term access.
A cricothyrotomy goes in the lower part of the larynx under the Adam's apple. A tracheostomy goes in a few centimeters below the larynx. A cric takes less time and equipment than a trach because it's easier to feel for the insertion site without having to cut through the front of the neck first, which is why it's typically a short-term intervention used in emergencies when the patient can't be intubated. A trach is more permanent.