A CASE OF PNEUMOMEDIASTINUM AND SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA IN TOOTH EXTRACTION
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Abstract
Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema is an uncommon potentially life-threatening complication of dental procedures. Common causes of pneumomediastinum after dental procedures include tooth extraction, restorative treatment, endodontic treatment, and subgingival curettage that are associated with the use of handpieces and high-pressure air/water syringes. We present a case of pneumomediastinum with subcutaneous emphysema in a 29-year-old male who underwent lower wisdom tooth extraction in left side. 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 for patients in dental procedures.
Keywords
Pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, dental procedure
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References
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