The efficacy of cricoid pressure in preventing gastro-oesophageal reflux in rapid sequence induction of anaesthesia

Aspiration pneumonitis (AP) is a recognised complication of general anaesthesia (GA) that has an associated morbidity and mortality. Sellick’s manoeuvre – the application of a sustained pressure to the cricoid cartilage – is one commonly taught anaesthetic practice that is deemed to reduce this risk of aspiration. However, this practice is not without its failings and some of the evidence base surrounding the use
of cricoid pressure is examined in this short article.