Subcutaneous emphysema during restorative dentistry.
BACKGROUND
Subcutaneous emphysema is a rare occurrence in the dental setting. When it does occur, the entity may be mistaken for an anaphylactic reaction to a local anaesthetic agent or other medications used in dental surgery.


METHODS
During restorative treatment of a left second primary molar air was introduced under an operculum. Communication with submandibular and sublingual spaces to the mediastinum was established.


CONCLUSIONS
Therapy for subcutaneous emphysema involves, correct diagnosis and antibiotic coverage. Subcutaneous air will resolve over time so observation is indicated.
Steelman
Robert J
RJ
Pediatric Critical Care Medicine and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA. steelmar@ohsu.edu
Johannes
Phyllis W
PW
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000628:therapy; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000209:etiology; D008963:Molar / Q000473:pathology; D009333:Neck / Q000473:pathology*; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000209:etiology*; D014094:Tooth, Deciduous / Q000473:pathology