Neonatal Subcutaneous Emphysema Secondary to Chest Tube Placement Using the Trocar Technique: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Pediatric Medicine
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Subcutaneous emphysema involves air accumulation in the subcutaneous layer, often detected via imaging (abdomen, chest, face, neck).
• Crepitus upon palpation is a common clinical sign associated with subcutaneous emphysema.
• Chest tube placement, especially using the trocar technique, is a known cause of subcutaneous emphysema.

Observation:

• This report details a case of subcutaneous emphysema in a neonate.
• The complication arose subsequent to chest tube insertion utilizing the trocar technique.

Findings:

• The neonate developed subcutaneous emphysema after chest tube placement.
• The trocar technique for chest tube insertion was employed in this case.

Implications:

• Subcutaneous emphysema is a potential complication of chest tube placement in neonates.
• Clinicians should maintain awareness of this condition in neonates, as data is primarily from adult studies.
• Further research is needed to understand and manage subcutaneous emphysema in pediatric patients.