Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum after dental extraction
Journal
American Journal of Emergency Medicine
Journal Volume
17
Journal Issue
7
Pages
678-680
Date Issued
1999
Author(s)
Abstract
Pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and subcutaneous emphysema can occur occasionally after a surgical procedure. Facial swelling is a common complication of dental management. The occurrence of subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, and pneumomediastinum after dental procedures is rare. We present a case with subcutaneous emphysema of the upper chest, neck, chin, and pneumomediastinum after a tooth extraction and discuss the possible mechanism of subcutaneous emphysema. To prevent these complications during dental procedures, dental hand pieces that have air coolant and turbines that exhaust air in the surgical field should not be used.
Publisher
W.B. Saunders
Type
journal article