The coniotomy apparatus proposed is used for providing a means of breathing or artificial respiration in cases of a closed respiratory tract in the throat. In order to permit accurate fixation of a catheter system (17), a cuff (11) is provided which has a flange (12) with a fixing part (13). A cannula (18) with inserted mandrin (20) is guided along the cuff (11) by the flange (12). The correct position is fixed by the fixing part (13). The cannula (18) is provided with a standard connection piece (19) for connection of a respirator. The mandrin (20) is fitted with a bellows designed as a handle for determination of the point of piercing through the trachea. <IMAGE>
