Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Lateral Molar Approach-Driven Transoral Endoscopic Procedure for Benign Infratemporal Fossa Tumor Resection
Published on: August 15, 2025
Retropharyngeal and cervicofacial subcutaneous emphysema after maxillofacial trauma
Marcelo Rodrigues Azenha1, Marco Aurélio Kenichi Yamaji, Rafael Linard Avelar
1Morphology, Stomatology and Physiology Department, University of São Paulo, Av. Do Café, s/n Jd. Monte Alegre, 14040-904, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. marceloazenha@usp.br
Introduction:
Subcutaneous emphysema in the cervical region is a well-documented event that may occur secondary to tonsillectomy, dental treatment, oropharyngeal barotraumas, scaling and root planning therapy, punch biopsy, endotracheal intubation, orthognathic surgery, extraction of impacted teeth, or after maxillofacial trauma. After trauma episodes, subcutaneous emphysema may be caused by a maxillary antral wall fracture that occurs when air pressure is introduced into the fascial planes of the connective tissue. Retropharyngeal emphysema is a severe condition associated with traumatic aerodigestive tract injury and may be associated with life-threatening situations requiring prompt attention and diagnosis in order to prevent serious consequences.
Case Report:
We reported a case of cervicofacial and retropharyngeal emphysema in a 54-year-old patient who stated concerns after blowing his nose several times after a traumatic episode involving orbitozygomatic region. During the patient's hospital course, his airway remained stable, and he was discharged from the hospital 7 days later with a prognosis of full recovery, excellent occlusion and facial appearance, and complete resolution of subcutaneous emphysema.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology
Pneumothorax-II
Clinical Manifestations:
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
