Iatrogenic Pneumomediastinum and Facial Emphysema after Tooth Extraction

Chenguir M,Elansari R,Abada R,Loufad Fz,Halily S,Roubal M,Mahtar M

doi:10.15744/2348-9820.4.505

Abstract

Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum following extraction of mandibular third molars are rare. These complications are caused by forceful injection of air into the connective tissue. The symptoms may vary depending on the quantity of air, its location and the presence or absence of infection. In most cases, the subcutaneous emphysema will begin to disappear in 3-5 days. This report presents a case of subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum after wisdom extraction.

Highlights

The surgical extraction of the third molar is the most frequently carried out procedure in oral surgery [1]
The subcutaneous emphysema will begin to disappear in 3-5 days
This report presents a case of subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum after wisdom extraction

Summary

Introduction

The surgical extraction of the third molar is the most frequently carried out procedure in oral surgery [1]. Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum are rare complications of dental treatment. We present a case of cervicofacial emphysema and pneumomediastinum occurring in a 42-year-old female following the removal of the right third mandibular molar. A 42-year-old female patient came to the emergency department, due to crepitations in the face and neck immediately after a right third molar extraction under local anesthesia. Patient presents to the emergency department in the same date of incident. The rest of physical examination was normal. The chest X-ray demonstrated pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema (Figure 2). The patient was admitted to otolaryngology and neck surgery department for airway monitoring and parental antibiotic therapy. The clinical course was favorable, with a progressive reduction in the emphysema and no apparent complications. 7 days later chest x-ray control was normal The patient was discharged from the hospital 48h later. 7 days later chest x-ray control was normal

Discussion

Conclusion