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Surgical emphysema following nose blowing
1Department of Otolaryngology, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|March 11, 2003
Summary
A rare case of orbital fracture occurred in a young woman after blowing her nose, leading to surgical emphysema. Conservative management was successful, with no recurrence observed during follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Otolaryngology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Nose blowing is a common activity.
- Orbital fractures are typically caused by trauma.
- Surgical emphysema is the presence of air in the subcutaneous tissues.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old woman experienced gross surgical emphysema extending to her chest after forceful nose blowing.
- The patient had no concurrent ocular complications.
- Conservative management was initiated for the condition.
Findings:
- The case highlights a very rare instance of orbital fracture.
- The emphysema tracked from the orbit down to the chest.
- The patient's condition resolved with conservative treatment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for unusual complications from seemingly benign actions like nose blowing.
- It emphasizes the importance of considering rare diagnoses in cases of facial trauma or swelling.
- Further awareness among medical professionals about this rare complication may improve diagnostic and treatment approaches.