Extensive subcutaneous emphysema after extraction of a mandibular third molar: a case report.
Surgical emphysema is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of third molar removal and other oral procedures. The purpose of this case report is to remind dentists of the risk of surgical emphysema. Surgical emphysema developed in a 32-year-old female after removal of a mandibular third molar using a high-speed dental hand-piece. Because of the extent of the swelling, the patient was admitted for observation. Because of progressive swelling, a submandibular surgical incision and drainage was performed, which led to rapid resolution. The diagnosis and differential diagnosis of surgical emphysema are discussed to draw dentists' attention to the management and prevention of this complication.
Kung
Jung-Chang
JC
Department of Family Dentistry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Chuang
Fu-Hsiung
FH
Hsu
Kun-Jung
KJ
Shih
Yi-Lun
YL
Chen
Chun-Min
CM
Huang
I-Yueh
IY
D000328:Adult; D004322:Drainage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible / Q000601:surgery*; D008964:Molar, Third / Q000601:surgery*; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D014081:Tooth Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects*