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Cervical and mediastinal emphysema secondary to third molar extraction
J W Goodnight1, J A Sercarz, M B Wang
1Division of Head and Neck Surgery, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California 90024-1624.
Head & Neck
|May 1, 1994
Summary
A rare case of infected emphysema occurred after a lower third molar extraction. The study advises against using air turbine handpieces and air syringes in minor oral surgery to prevent such complications.
Area of Science:
- Oral Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Anatomy
Background:
- Presents a severe case of infected emphysema affecting deep cervical and mediastinal fascial planes.
- Occurred in a healthy male patient post-lower third molar extraction.
Observation:
- The complication directly resulted from the use of an air turbine handpiece and air syringe during the surgical procedure.
- The emphysema involved multiple deep fascial planes in the neck and mediastinum.
Findings:
- Air turbine handpieces and air syringes can introduce air into fascial planes, leading to emphysema.
- Distinguishing this condition from necrotizing fasciitis is crucial for appropriate management.
Implications:
- Recommends avoiding air turbine handpieces and air syringes in minor oral surgical procedures.
- Highlights the importance of careful technique and instrument selection to prevent surgical site infections and complications.