Morphometrical Study of Adult Human Cricoid Cartilage: A Cadaveric Study

Abstract: Introduction: The cricoid cartilage forms the base of the larynx and is the only cartilage in the larynx that completely encircles the airway. The dimensions of the cricoid cartilage can vary significantly. Therefore standard-sized endotracheal tubes used for intubation can damage the mucous lining of the laryngeal cartilages, making the diameters of the cricoid cartilage clinically important. As a result, understanding these diameters has become increasingly relevant in medical practice. Materials and methods: The study examined the cricoid cartilages of formalin embalmed 20 cadavers (10 male and 10 female) aged between 50-70 years. All muscles, ligaments, and mucous membranes were removed prior to the analysis. The following measurements were taken: anteroposterior diameter (both outer and inner), transverse diameter (both outer and inner), height of the lamina and arch, and the thickness of the arch and lamina. These measurements were obtained using a Vernier calliper. Results: Measurements of the cricoid cartilage showed significant differences between males and females. Males exhibited notably larger dimensions compared to females. In this study, both the inner and outer anteroposterior (AP) diameters were greater than the transverse diameter (TD), and these measurements were larger in males than in females. Conclusion: The current study revealed that the AP diameter was greater than the TD diameter, with both measurements being slightly greater than those observed in other Indian populations. This morphometric data will be valuable in choosing the right endotracheal tubes for intubation and for surgical procedures involving the larynx.