Lednev A N, Pechetov A A, Kozhanova A V, Gulova N V, Volchansky D A
Vishnevsky National Medical Research Center of Surgery, Moscow, Russia.
Khirurgiia (Mosk). 2023(8):81-86. doi: 10.17116/hirurgia202308181.
Soft tissue emphysema (including subcutaneous emphysema) is common in pneumothorax. In most cases, this condition is of little clinical significance and regresses under standard medical procedures. However, progressive soft tissue emphysema poses a threat to the patient's life in case of compression of the upper respiratory tract in some cases. The world literature describes various approaches to the treatment of these patients. Standard medical care for progressive soft tissue emphysema following pneumothorax is pleural drainage with active aspiration. Despite unequivocal treatment tactics, this may not be enough in case of massive air release. Surgical treatment may be accompanied by surgical and anesthetic difficulties including difficult intubation. The authors present persistent tension pneumothorax and soft tissue emphysema, features of surgical and anesthetic management, as well as current treatment options.
