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Massive Upper Body and Cervicofacial Subcutaneous Emphysema Following Robotic Myomectomy
Joseph Capone1, Aladino De Ranieri1, Nebojsa N Knezevic1
1Department of Anesthesiology, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, 836 W. Wellington Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, USA.
Case Reports in Anesthesiology
|October 5, 2019
Summary
Robotic surgery can cause subcutaneous emphysema, a rare complication where air enters tissues. This case highlights massive upper body emphysema and pneumothoraces after robotic intraperitoneal procedures.
Area of Science:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Surgical Complications
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Robotic surgical techniques are increasingly used for intraperitoneal pathology.
- These minimally invasive procedures offer benefits like reduced operating time and morbidity.
- However, potential complications can still arise.
Observation:
- A rare case of massive subcutaneous emphysema occurred.
- The emphysema involved the upper body and cervicofacial region.
- Bilateral pneumothoraces were also observed.
Findings:
- Subcutaneous emphysema is the unintentional introduction of air or carbon dioxide into subcutaneous tissues.
- This complication followed robotic intraperitoneal surgery.
- The case presented with extensive emphysema and bilateral pneumothoraces.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare complications associated with robotic surgery.
- Awareness of potential subcutaneous emphysema is crucial for surgeons using these techniques.
- Further investigation into preventing and managing this complication may be warranted.

