Massive acute cervicofacial emphysema following attempted third molar extraction: A case report in effective clinical intervention
Abstract
A 31-year-old man presented to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) outpatient department with diffuse cervicofacial swelling on the left side of his face, which developed a few hours after an attempted surgical extraction of the lower left third molar tooth. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed significant emphysema of the left cervicofacial space. The clinical signs nearly resolved within three weeks of onset. This postoperative swelling was likely due to either an air embolism or an inflammatory reaction from the use of an air-driven handpiece during the procedure. The condition responded well to antibiotic treatment, underscoring the importance of appropriate management. This case highlights the need for patient education on potential postoperative complications and the importance of careful technique to prevent such issues in the future.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Pneumothorax
Barotrauma
Emphysema
Otolaryngology and Infectious Diseases
Facial Trauma and Fracture Management
Publication details
- Journal / source
- National Journal of Maxillofacial Surgery
- Publisher
- Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
- Volume
- 17
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 374–376
- Publication date
- 1 May 2026
- Language
- EN