title: [Massive subcutaneous emphysema--management using subcutaneous drains].
abstract: Massive subcutaneous emphysema is a relatively common complication in invasive techniques, surgical practice and some medical conditions. Subcutaneous emphysema is usually treated conservatively and may only cause minimal symptoms. Even when it is severe, subcutaneous emphysema rarely has pathophysiologic consequences, but it is extremely uncomfortable for the patient. The authors report a case of massive and rapid developing subcutaneous emphysema following chest tube displacement in a patient with spontaneous se- condary pneumothorax and large air leak. The emphysema was treated with two subcutaneous drains, inserted using local anesthesia, on both sides of the chest (antero -superior thoracic wall), connected to drainage bags. The drains produced a dramatic clinical improvement and provided effective decompression of the subcutaneous emphysema. In this clinical case, the technique of drainage of severe subcutaneous emphysema using subcutaneous drains was safe, easy and effective, affording immediate symptom relief.
authors.affiliation: Assistente Hospitalar de Pneumologia. maria.sucena@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sucena
authors.forename: Fernando
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Coelho
authors.forename: Teresa
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Almeida
authors.forename: António
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gouveia
authors.forename: Venceslau
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Hespanhol
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004322:Drainage / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000628:therapy*