[Invasive emergency techniques—cricothyroidotomy]

On-scene invasive emergency procedures, such as cricothyroidotomy, chest drain, intraosseous puncture or even on-field-amputation, are often unavoidable, when indicated, and present a major challenge for the emergency physician. Personal, temporal or local conditions are often unsuitable. Even with regular intervention by the emergency medical service, "last resort" measures occur very infrequently, particularly in relation to paediatric emergencies. As well as theoretical training, practice-oriented course concepts are essential in order to achieve high quality in these procedures. This article presents the use of cricothyroidotomy on adults and children, with reference to indication, implementation, problems and risks. It is part of a series of four articles on the subject of invasive emergency techniques.