Subcutaneous emphysema secondary to autogenous bone grafting: a case report

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dental Implantology
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Subcutaneous emphysema (SE) is a rare complication of dental procedures, characterized by air trapped in subcutaneous tissues.
• SE following autogenous bone grafting is exceptionally uncommon, with few documented instances.
• This report focuses on a case of delayed SE after autogenous bone grafting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a rare case of delayed subcutaneous emphysema.
• To highlight simultaneous involvement of donor and recipient sites in SE.
• To underscore the importance of clinical awareness and prompt diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a patient with delayed subcutaneous emphysema.
• Clinical examination revealing facial and labial swelling.
• Confirmation of SE using postoperative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Main Results:

• Delayed subcutaneous emphysema was confirmed postoperatively.
• The emphysema affected both the bone graft donor and recipient sites.
• Facial and labial swelling were the primary clinical presentations.

Conclusions:

• This case highlights the rare occurrence of SE after autogenous bone grafting.
• Simultaneous involvement of donor and recipient sites is noted.
• Heightened clinical awareness, timely diagnosis, and preventive strategies are crucial for bone augmentation procedures.