The anterior cricoid split is an operation in the pediatric otolaryngologist's armamentarium for dealing with failed extubation in the neonate or very young infant. Successful extubation requires careful patient selection taking into account comorbidities and gestational age. This article describes the indications and technique for anterior cricoid split and explores limited indications and potential keys for success.
Department of Otolaryngology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Denver and Health Sciences Center, Vascular Malformation Clinic, The Children's Hospital, University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado
Address reprint requests and correspondence: Peggy E. Kelley, MD, FACS, FAAP, Department of Otolaryngology, The Children's Hospital, 13123 East 16th Ave, B455, Aurora, CO 80045