Kaohsiung J Med Sci
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Kaohsiung J Med Sci · Dec 2006
Review Case ReportsSubcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum secondary to dental extraction: a case report and literature review.
Here, we present the case of a woman who suffered from acute dyspnea and right cheek and neck swelling during molar extraction. The use of a high-speed dental drill may introduce air into the soft tissue and lead to subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. ⋯ We report this case because physicians in the emergency department may misdiagnose the symptoms as an allergic reaction. Dentists should be more aware of air leak during dental extraction.