Iatrogenic subcutaneous cervicofacial emphysema with pneumomediastinum after class V restoration

• Published in: Journal of the Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Vol. 43; no. 1; pp. 49 - 52
• Main Authors: Lee, Sang-Woon, Huh, Yoon-Hyuk, Cha, Min-Sang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) 대한구강악안면외과학회 01.02.2017; Korean Association Of Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeons; The Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
• Subjects: Special Associated with Complications; 치의학; Mediastinal emphysema; Subcutaneous emphysema
• ISSN: 2234-7550; 2234-5930
• DOI: 10.5125/jkaoms.2017.43.1.49

Subcutaneous facial emphysema after dental treatment is an uncommon complication caused by the invasion of high-pressure air; in severe cases, it can spread to the neck, mediastinum, and thorax, resulting in cervical emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and pneumothorax. The present case showed subcutaneous cervicofacial emphysema with pneumomediastinum after class V restoration. The patient was fully recovered after eight days of conservative treatment. The cause of this case was the penetration of high-pressure air through the gingival sulcus, which had a weakened gingival attachment. This case indicated that dentists should be careful to prevent subcutaneous emphysema during common dental treatments using a high-speed hand piece and gingival retraction cord.