Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema is an uncommon potentially life-threatening complication of dental procedures. Common causes of pneumomediastinum after dental procedures include tooth extraction, preparation, restorative treatment, endodontic treatment, and subgingival curettage that are associated with the use of handpieces and high-pressure air/water syringes. Herein, we present a case of pneumomediastinum with subcutaneous emphysema in a 40-year-old female who underwent two dental fillings and presented to our hospital with chief complain of facial swelling and odynophagia. The patient was managed conservatively, had an uneventful hospital course, and fully recovered. This case underlines the need for prompt diagnosis and management because of the risk of airway compromise, air embolism, and infection. The mechanism, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, and complications are also reviewed.
Keywords: pneumomediastinum; subcutaneous emphysema.
Copyright © 2019, Rawlinson et al.