Iatrogenic Subcutaneous Emphysema of Endodontic Origin – Case Report with Literature Review

Abstract

Surgical emphysema is well known and many case reports have been published on this. Many authors have reported this as a complication post dentoalveolar treatment. Diffusion of air into facial planes and periorbital area during endodontic procedures has been rarely reported. The use of three way air syringe and forceful irrigation of root canal can lead to surgical emphysema of subcutaneous tissue planes in and around the teeth which are involved. This case report highlights one such complication seen during endodontic treatment, discusses aetiology, complications and conservative management of this dental office emergency.

Keywords

• diffusion
• latogenic diseases
• high pressure air instruments
• root canal therapy