An emergency surgical airway may be a life-saving procedure in situations

where other airway management techniques have failed or are

contraindicated. Whilst the incidence of the can’t intubate, can’t

oxygenate (CICO) scenario is low, with estimates ranging from 1/50,000

intubations in the operating theatre to 1/100 intubations in the Emergency

Department, being able to gain access to the airway via the anterior neck

is an essential rescue option.