Subcutaneous emphysema

Subcutaneous emphysema (SE) is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air or gas in the subcutaneous tissue, the layer of tissue that lies immediately beneath the skin. It is often associated with pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum, and can result from a variety of causes, including trauma, surgery, and certain medical procedures.

Causes

Subcutaneous emphysema can occur as a result of any condition that leads to the introduction of air into the subcutaneous tissue. This can include:

• Trauma: This is the most common cause of subcutaneous emphysema. It can occur as a result of blunt or penetrating trauma to the chest or neck, which can cause air to escape from the lungs or airways and enter the subcutaneous tissue.
• Surgery: Subcutaneous emphysema can occur as a complication of surgery, particularly surgeries involving the chest or abdomen.
• Medical procedures: Certain medical procedures, such as bronchoscopy or mechanical ventilation, can lead to subcutaneous emphysema.

Symptoms

The symptoms of subcutaneous emphysema can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They can include:

• Swelling and puffiness of the skin
• Pain or discomfort in the affected area
• A crackling sensation when the skin is touched, due to the presence of air bubbles in the tissue
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing, if the emphysema is located in the neck or chest

Diagnosis

Subcutaneous emphysema is typically diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms and physical examination. Imaging tests, such as X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the condition.

Treatment

The treatment for subcutaneous emphysema depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In mild cases, the condition may resolve on its own without treatment. In more severe cases, treatment may include:

• Oxygen therapy: This can help to reduce the size of the air bubbles in the tissue.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the air from the tissue and repair any damage that has been caused.

See also

• Barotrauma
• Pneumothorax
• Pneumomediastinum