Comparing the extubation force resisted by different methods of securing an endotracheal tube placed via a surgical cricothyroidotomy by emergency physicians: A double-blind randomised controlled trial in cadavers.

A novel method of tying an endotracheal tube (ETT) using a fabric twill tape will be used to secure an ETT placed through the cricothyroidotomy (surgical airway) in cadavers. The technique involves a series of square knots to ensure the tape cannot alter it's length (as it is around the neck) whilst also tightly securing the ETT (to prevent inadvertent extubation). This method will be taught to candidates participating on a cadaveric airway course for critical care clinicians. Intervention description: a) The intervention will be taught by the authors of the study (senior emergency physicians and directors of the cadaveric airway course). b) The teaching intervention is brief - less than 10 minutes per technique c) The participants are observed by the study authors whilst performing the techniques and guidance will be available if difficulty is encountered. Regarding washout - the order of techniques will be randomised for each participant and they will undertake each procedure on a different cadaver. The washout period is the time taken to move to the next cadaver.