Massive subcutaneous emphysema following routine endotracheal intubation

• Published in: Journal of laryngology and otology Vol. 117; no. 11; pp. 899 - 901
• Main Authors: Watters, K. F., Lacy, P. D., McConn Walsh, R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge, UK Cambridge University Press 01.11.2003
• Subjects: (RF) Otorhinolaryngology; Biological and medical sciences; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma; Female; Humans; Intratracheal; Intubation; Intubation, Intratracheal - adverse effects; Mediastinal Emphysema; Mediastinal Emphysema - etiology; Mediastinal Emphysema - pathology; Medical sciences; Middle Aged; Neck - pathology; Pneumology; Subcutaneous Emphysema; Subcutaneous Emphysema - etiology; Subcutaneous Emphysema - pathology; Thorax - pathology; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Intubation, Intratracheal; Subcutaneous Emphysema; Mediastinal Emphysema; Case study; Human; Lung disease; Skin disease; Respiratory disease; Subcutaneous; Bronchus disease; Complication; Obstructive pulmonary disease; Intubation; Emphysema; Trachea
• ISSN: 0022-2151; 1748-5460
• DOI: 10.1258/002221503322542953

Upper aerodigestive tract injury after endotracheal intubation is a rare but serious complication. The case of a 57-year-old female, who developed extensive neck and pneumomediastinum following a knee arthroscopy under general anaesthesia, is presented. Possible mechanisms of injury and management options are discussed.