Subcutaneous Emphysema: A Rare Postoperative Complication after Tonsillectomy

Abstract

Abstract:Tonsillectomy is considered as a relatively safe procedure. This report aimed at describing an uncommon complication of this surgical procedure -subcutaneous emphysema. A 12 years old girl admitted for tonsillectomy operation. After routine preoperative assessment her operation was performed under general anesthesia. Surgery was uneventful.7-8 hours after surgery, during follow-up in postoperative room progressing subcutaneous emphysema was noticed which initially involved the neck. But later on, it extended upper chest, upper arms, face & back. Crepitus swelling of neck and bilateral parotid region, typical of subcutaneous emphysema was noted. Chest X ray showed free air in the cervical regions reaching upper mediastinum. There was no airway obstruction and patient's general condition was stable. Emphysema was no longer clinically evident 3 days after & patient was released.Journal of Paediatric Surgeons of Bangladesh (2012)