Tracheal intubation is associated with a number of complications. Because most complications are immediately noticeable, once recognized, they can be readily treated. However, every once in a while, problems associated with intubation appear at a
time
distant to the intubation itself.
Subcutaneous emphysema can occur as a result of trauma, surgery, and anesthesia.
This is a case study concerning a difficult tracheal intubation which led to an extensive subcutaneous emphysema developed during the intraoperative period. However, the emphysema subsided spontaneously without any complications postoperatively.
The patient went home in good condition on the 7th postoperative day.
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