Benign surgical emphysema of the hand and upper limb: gas is not always gangrene--a report of two cases.
Subcutaneous emphysema of the hand can result from benign causes. Differentiating this from emphysema caused by gas-forming organisms is essential in the acute stages of presentation as the management differs considerably. We present two cases of benign surgical emphysema and highlight the importance of distinguishing between this and gas gangrene. A considered history and the absence of systemic features associated with benign causes of subcutaneous air will prevent unnecessary surgical exploration.
Fox
A
A
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 3rd Floor, Lambeth Wing, St Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7EH, UK. andreasfox@gmail.com
Sheick
H
H
Ekwobi
C
C
Ho-Asjoe
M
M
D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D005738:Gas Gangrene / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents