title: Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous cervical emphysema during third molar extraction under general anesthesia.
abstract: A case of pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous cervical emphysema during the extraction of third molars under general anesthesia has been presented. The most likely cause was pulmonary barotrauma secondary to a faulty expiratory valve. This emphasizes the need for the proper preoperative check of all anesthetic equipment. Although pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous cervical emphysema are usually self-limiting conditions with rapid recovery, the patient must undergo close observation for the possible development of serious complications.
authors.forename: S B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Aragon
authors.forename: M F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Dolwick
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Buckley
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000766:Anesthesia, Dental; D000768:Anesthesia, General; D001469:Barotrauma / Q000150:complications; D004646:Emphysema / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000209:etiology*; D008964:Molar, Third / Q000601:surgery*; D009333:Neck; D011650:Pulmonary Alveoli / Q000293:injuries; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000209:etiology*; D014081:Tooth Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects*