Airway Compromise Due to Extensive Subcutaneous Emphysema Following Trauma: A Case Report

Abstract

Subcutaneous or surgical emphysema (SE) following chest trauma is usually not of major concern in itself and tends to be self-limiting, provided the underlying cause has been addressed. Occasionally, a patient may present with massive SE which may threaten the patient’s airway and breathing. It is important for clinicians to have a management approach to such patients. Here we present such a case that was admitted to our hospital, describing the management approach and review the existing literature on the subject.