SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA, PNEUMOMEDIASTINUM AND PNEUMOTHORAX

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Abstract
A case is presented of acute respiratory distress resulting in subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax in a patient who underwent a gastrectomy. The literature is reviewed. This complication is believed to have been due to laceration of the pharynx during attempted passage of a nasogastric tube. The subsequent use of nasal oxygen in the immediate postoperative period with coughing may have aggravated or even initiated this condition. Rapid recognition and immediate treatment cured this nearly fatal accident.

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