Cervicofacial emphysema and pneumomediastinum following pediatric adenotonsillectomy: a rare complication.
Cervicofacial emphysema and pneumomediastinum are rarely observed sequelae of surgical intervention in the upper aerodigestive tract. It is a potentially life-threatening condition but the majority of cases are self-limiting and benign. Symptoms include chest pain, neck pain, dyspnea and odynophagia. A case occurring after adenotonsillar surgery in a 7-year-old child is presented. This report highlights this unusual complication and its potential to delay the postoperative recovery following adenotonsillectomy.
Shine
Neville Patrick
NP
Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Princess Margaret Hospital, Roberts Road, 20 Jarrad Street, Subiaco, Cottesloe, WA 6011, Australia. shiner1@eircom.net
Sader
Chady
C
Coates
Harvey
H
D000233:Adenoidectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002648:Child; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D009333:Neck; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D014068:Tonsillectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*