A Rare Complication of Tonsillectomy: Subcutaneous Emphysema

Abstract

Tonsillectomy is one of the surgical procedures that are frequently performed by ear, nose, and throat surgeons. The procedure is associated with many intra-operative and postoperative complications, and the nature of the operation site hampers surgical interventions. Cervicofacial subcutaneous emphysema is characterized by the presence of air within the fascial planes of the head-neck region because of various reasons. It may develop iatrogenically or spontaneously because of trauma. Herein, we report a 4-year-old male patient who presented to our clinic with complaints of frequent tonsillitis and snoring and who developed subcutaneous emphysema involving only the maxillofacial region following tonsillectomy. In addition, treatment strategies have been discussed, taking current literature into account.