A Case Of Subcutaneous Emphysema In A Post Operative Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patient Undergoing Percutaneous Tracheostomy In Intensive Care Cardiac Unit

Percutaneous tracheostomy (PCT) is considered the most widely accepted technique in critical care setting specifically in patients requiring prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation. Although PCT is considered a safe procedure it can lead to certain life threatening complications one of which is massive subcutaneous emphysema. We report a post operative case of coronary artery bypass graft surgery requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation due to repeated aspiration leading to pneumonia. Bedside PCT was done leading to immediate massive diffuse facial and orbital emphysema. We discuss here the recognition and management of such complications.