Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults
Published on: November 6, 2019
[Subcutaneous emphysema after adenotonsillectomy]
Thomas Skov Randrup1, Malene Sine Rokkjær
1Øre-, Næse-, Hals-afdeling Ø, Regionshospitalet Holstebro, Lægårdvej 12, 7500 Holstebro, Denmark. dr.skov.madsen@gmail.com
Abstract:
Adenotonsillectomy is a commonly performed procedure in otorhinolaryngology departments. A rare complication is cervicofacial subcutaneous emphysema, that often resolves spontaneously, but may progress to obstruct upper airways or spread to the thorax causing pneumomediastinum or pneumothorax and impair cardiorespiratory function. A case of cervicofacial emphysema in a young woman undergoing routine adenotonsillectomy is presented, and possible mechanisms and treatment options are discussed.
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