A homemade model for training in cricothyrotomy.

We describe a simple, homemade model for teaching cricothyrotomy. It can easily be constructed from materials found in every anaesthetic room and is cheap, portable and usable several times before requiring replacement. We also describe evaluation of the model in a two-part study. First, 20 anaesthetic trainees, both with and without prior experience of percutaneous cricothyrotomy/tracheotomy, cannulated the 'trachea' using two percutaneous airway sets (Ravussin jet ventilation catheter[VBM] and Mini-Trach II Seldinger[Portex]), then scored the model for realism and usefulness for training. Next, 20 further trainees used the Mini-Trach II Seldinger on both the homemade model and a commercially available cricothyrotomy/tracheotomy trainer (Pharmabotics), scoring both models as before. In the first part of the study, trainees found the homemade model a useful substitute for practice of percutaneous techniques and teaching. In the second part, both models were rated well, with similar scores. The homemade model is an easily assembled alternative to more expensive models. Both experienced and inexperienced trainees find practising on such models useful.