 A cricothyrotomy is an incision made through the skin and cricothyroid membrane to establish a patent airway during certain life @-@ threatening situations , such as airway obstruction by a foreign body , angioedema , or massive facial trauma . A cricothyrotomy is nearly always performed as a last resort in cases where orotracheal and nasotracheal intubation are impossible or contraindicated . <unk> is easier and quicker to perform than tracheotomy , does not require manipulation of the cervical spine and is associated with fewer complications . 
