Cervicofacial Emphysema and Pneumomediastinum Complicating a Dental Extraction

Abdelkarim Shimi, Said Benlamkaddem, Driss Tahse, Ali Derkaoui, Mohammed Khatouf

Intensive Care Unit A1, University Hospital Hassan II, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco.

DOI: 10.4236/crcm.2015.47051                

Abstract

Background: Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema are a rare and well-known complication of dental procedures. Many cases go unrecognized and resolve spontaneously, while others may require specific therapeutic management to prevent complications. Case Presentations: We report a case of cervical subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediasitnum occurring after extraction of lower right second molar. The emphysema was detected 2 hours after dental surgery. This paper reports on the diagnosis and treatment of subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. Conclusion: In order to prevent this complication, air turbine high speed drills should be used only in necessary cases.

Keywords

Subcutaneous Emphysema, Pneumomediastinum, Dental Extraction

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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