Massive subcutaneous emphysema and hypercarbia associated with laparoscopy

ABSTRACT

Laparoscopic surgical techniques have exp and ed tremendously within the last two decades and increasingly being used to treat intraperitoneal pathology. These minimally invasive techniques offer decreased operating time, decreased morbidity and decreased length of hospital stay. These procedures, however, are not completely safe and without potential morbidity. Massive and life threatening extraperitoneal pneumodissection after laparoscopic procedures is one of the uncommon complications associated with it. Here we describe a case of massive subcutaneous emphysema with prolonged hypercarbia