Paramedic National Registry Practice

Cricoid pressure, also known as Sellick's maneuver, is applied to the cricoid cartilage in the neck and can help prevent regurgitation and aspiration during intubation. The reason that applying cricoid pressure stops vomiting for a short period of time primarily relates to the effect it has on the esophagus.

By exerting pressure on the cricoid cartilage, which is located just above the esophagus, this maneuver can compress the esophagus. This compression can help prevent the passage of gastric contents back into the esophagus and potentially into the mouth. Therefore, it is effective in temporarily reducing the likelihood of vomiting during procedures where aspiration is a risk. The pressure creates a physical barrier that can inhibit the upward movement of stomach contents, allowing for a safer intubation or surgical procedure.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial, particularly in emergency medical situations where the risk of aspiration poses a significant threat to the patient’s airway safety.