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Surgical emphysema following dental treatment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

R. J. Salib*
Affiliation:
Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK.
P. Valentine
Affiliation:
Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK.
S. Akhtar
Affiliation:
Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, London, UK.
*
Address for correspondence: Mr R. J. Salib, 10 Roxborough Avenue, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3BU.

Abstract

Surgical emphysema is a relatively rare complication of dental surgery. Many cases go unrecognized or are misdiagnosed. Although the majority of cases resolve spontaneously, some can lead to potentially lifethreatening complications requiring emergency intervention. A case of surgical emphysema following a routine restorative dental procedure is presented. The differential diagnosis and management of this condition is discussed.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1999

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