When is cricothyrotomy indicated?

Cricothyrotomy is a surgical procedure performed to secure an airway in cases where traditional methods of intubation are unsuccessful or impossible, specifically in emergency situations where access to the airway is obstructed. This might occur due to severe facial trauma, swelling, or foreign body obstruction, which can render the airway inaccessible. The cricothyrotomy provides a direct access point to the trachea through the cricothyroid membrane, allowing for immediate airway management and ventilation.

In contrast, routine intubation doesn't warrant this invasive procedure, as standard intubation techniques are typically adequate for establishing an airway in patients without significant obstruction. Respiratory distress with normal vital signs indicates that although the patient may have difficulty breathing, they are still maintaining adequate oxygenation and ventilation, suggesting that less invasive measures would be more appropriate. Performing lung function tests is unrelated to airway management and does not require a cricothyrotomy, which is specifically used for emergency airway access.