Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum after tonsillectomy.
Many patients and their families regard tonsillectomy as a minor operation because it is performed so commonly. However, although tonsillectomy is indeed a relatively safe surgical procedure, in extremely rare cases, it can be complicated by subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. Although these complications resolve spontaneously in most cases, a few conclude in tension pneumothorax and other fatal complications. The mechanism by which subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum develop after tonsillectomy is poorly understood. We experienced a case in which subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and a deep defect in the tonsillar fossa were observed. The passage of air was shown by radiology and histopathology. Consequently, the case is reported here.
Kim
Jin Pyeong
JP
Department of Otolaryngology, Institute of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, South Korea.
Park
Jung Je
JJ
Kang
Hung Soo
HS
Song
Min Sung
MS
D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014068:Tonsillectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014069:Tonsillitis / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents