Subcutaneous Emphysema
- when free air finds its way into subq tissue
- usually as a result of pneumomediastinum, PTX
- may also be orbital fracture, permitting free air to escape from the nasal
sinuses
- in neck/thorax, may result from tracheotomy, deep ulcerations in
pharyngeal region, esophageal wounds, or any perforating lesion of the
trachea.
- complication of thoracentesis, asthma, or abdominal surgery
- rarely, air may be formed in the subq tissues by gas-producing bacteria
If the cause is an air leak from the respiratory system, it is usually self
limited if the cause is eliminated. It can be uncomfortable.
Resolution occurs by resorption.
Rarely, air in surrounding tissue may compress trachea, and may require
surgical intervention.
(Nelson's 16th Ed)