Case Reports in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Jan 2017)

Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum in Labor

  • Mohamed Adnane Berdai,
  • Said Benlamkadem,
  • Smael Labib,
  • Mustapha Harandou

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/6235076
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 2017

Abstract

Read online

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema also known as Hamman’s syndrome is a very rare complication of labor that is often related to the valsalva maneuver during the labor. In most case, Hamman’s syndrome is a self-limiting condition, rarely complicated unless there are underlying respiratory diseases. Chest X-ray can be a useful early diagnostic technique in severe clinical presentation. We report an uneventful pregnancy in a primigravid parturient, which was complicated in the late second stage of labor by the development of subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and mild pneumothorax. Spontaneous recovery occurred after four days of conservative management. This condition shows the major interest of labor analgesia especially locoregional techniques.