Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum complicating tonsillectomy: A case report.
- Author:
Dong Ha LEE
1
;
Eun Ju KIM
;
Ji Hyang LEE
;
Sang Gon LEE
;
Jong Seouk BAN
;
Byung Woo MIN
Author Information
1. Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Daegu Fatima Hospital, Daegu, Korea. kej1127@fatima.or.kr
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Pneumomediastinum;
Subcutaneous emphysema;
Tonsillectomy
- MeSH:
Anti-Bacterial Agents;
Cheek;
Humans;
Male;
Mediastinal Emphysema;
Middle Aged;
Neck;
Subcutaneous Emphysema;
Tonsillectomy
- From:Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
2011;6(3):249-252
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum are an unusual complication following tonsillectomy. We present a 50-year-old male patient who, after receiving tonsillectomy, developed painful swelling of the cheek and neck. We experienced a case in which subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum and a deep defect in the tonsillar fossa were observed. These complications resolved 5 days later with conservative treatment, including broad-spectrum antibiotics. This case serves as a reminder that unusual and unexpected complications can occur during a routine procedure. Methods to prevent this complication are discussed.
