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Updated: Jul 7, 2026

International Expert Consensus and Recommendations for Neonatal Pneumothorax Ultrasound Diagnosis and Ultrasound-guided Thoracentesis Procedure
Published on: March 12, 2020
[A large emphysema as complication of sinus puncture]
Ireneusz Kantor1, Paulina Antonik, Dariusz Jurkiewicz
1Wojskowy Instytut Medyczny, Klinika Otolaryngologii CSK MON w Warszawie.
Maxillary sinus puncture, a common procedure for acute sinusitis, carries a minimal risk of complications. This case report details emphysema in multiple regions following this procedure in a 61-year-old man.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Acute sinusitis, including maxillary sinusitis, frequently complicates upper respiratory infections.
- Maxillary sinus puncture is considered a diagnostic and treatment gold standard when initial methods fail.
Observation:
- The study presents a rare case of extensive emphysema.
- Emphysema occurred in the intramuscular, subcutaneous, retropharyngeal, and prevertebral regions.
- The patient was a 61-year-old male.
Findings:
- Maxillary sinus puncture, despite being simple and inexpensive, carries a risk of complications.
- The case highlights the potential for serious, widespread emphysema following the procedure.
- This complication underscores that sinus puncture is not without risk.
Implications:
- While effective, sinus puncture should be approached with caution due to potential complications like emphysema.
- This case emphasizes the need for careful patient selection and technique during sinus puncture.
- Further research may be warranted to explore preventative measures or alternative diagnostic approaches.
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