Partial Cricotracheal Resection

Also known as: cricotracheal resection, trachial resection.

What is partial cricotracheal resection?

The trachea is the medical term for the windpipe that leads to the lungs. The cricoid is the ring of cartilage around the trachea. If scarring occurs on the cricoid or the portion of trachea below it, a partial cricotracheal resection might be necessary to remove this portion and reconnect the healthy ends.

What happens during the procedure?

Partial cricotracheal resection is a complex procedure performed under general anesthesia. It involves opening up the neck in order to operate directly on the trachea. The scarred portion of trachea and cricoid is removed, and the ends are reconnected to one another.

 

Is any special preparation needed? 

A number of tests and procedures are required prior to a partial cricotracheal resection. The patient will also need to avoid food, drink and medications before the procedure.
 

What are the risk factors? 

A partial cricotracheal resection requires a lengthy hospital stay and follow-up procedures. Infection, bleeding, damage to surrounding organs and tissues and breathing difficulties are potential complications of partial cricotracheal resection.

Reviewed by: Brian Ho, MD

This page was last updated on: January 20, 2022 02:23 PM