Subcutaneous emphysema producing airway compromise after anesthesia for reduction of a mandibular fracture. A case report and review of the literature.
Subcutaneous emphysema can occur as the result of trauma, surgery, and anesthesia. A case is presented of extensive subcutaneous emphysema after anesthesia for oral surgical reduction of a mandibular fracture. A discussion of the diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment of subcutaneous emphysema follows.
Anderson
J A
JA
University of North Carolina, School of Dentistry, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Chapel Hill 27599.
Tucker
M R
MR
Foley
W L
WL
Pillsbury
H C
HC
Norfleet
E A
EA
D000328:Adult; D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D000770:Anesthesia, Endotracheal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000601:surgery; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000601:surgery*; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed