Cricoidectomy

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Cricoidectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the cricoid cartilage, a ring-shaped structure located in the larynx. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions such as cricoid chondrosarcoma and subglottic stenosis.

Indications[edit | edit source]

Cricoidectomy is indicated in cases where the cricoid cartilage is affected by diseases such as cancer or stenosis. The procedure is also performed to remove tumors or lesions located in the cricoid cartilage.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the neck to expose the larynx. The cricoid cartilage is then carefully removed, taking care to avoid damage to the surrounding structures. The larynx is then reconstructed using a graft, usually taken from the patient's own rib cartilage.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

As with any surgical procedure, cricoidectomy carries certain risks. These include infection, bleeding, and damage to the surrounding structures. There is also a risk of voice changes due to damage to the vocal cords.

Postoperative Care[edit | edit source]

After the procedure, the patient is usually required to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. The patient may also require speech therapy to manage any changes in voice.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Cricoidectomy Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD