Two Cases of Subcutaneous Emphysema and Pneumomediastinum Identified During the Laparoscopic Tubal Anastomosis / 대한산부인과학회잡지

ABSTRACT

Over the last few decades, laparoscopy has evolved from a useful diagnostic tool to a complex surgical method. With its increasing popularity, the complications associated with laparoscopy are also increasing in number and variety. Subcutaneous emphysema, a complication related to the pneumoperitoneum, may result in hypercarbia, pneumomediastinum, and pneumothorax. It can result in even respiratory failure in serious cases. However, it may be easily detected with the signs of increased maximum positive end-tidal CO2 (PETCO2) and crepitus. Fortunately, most of them are recovered by proper conservative management. We report two cases of subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum identified during laparoscopic tubal anastomosis.