ABSTRACT
Cervical and mediastinal emphysema is a rare but serious, life-threatening complication associated with mandibular fractures secondary to high-impact trauma. A case is reported in which a 24-year-old white man involved in a motor vehicle accident presented with an isolated mandibular fracture, cervical emphysema, and pneumomediastinum. A review of the literature is presented, and relevant anatomy and management are discussed.
Subject(s)
Mandibular Fractures/complications , Mediastinal Emphysema/etiology , Neck Injuries , Subcutaneous Emphysema/etiology , Accidents, Traffic , Adult , Humans , Male , Mediastinal Emphysema/diagnosis , Mediastinal Emphysema/therapy , Neck/diagnostic imaging , RadiographyABSTRACT
The oral and maxillofacial surgery patient with a sickle cell hemoglobinopathy presents a complex and challenging clinical management problem. The potential for significant morbidity and mortality among these patients is great. Thus the surgeon must adhere to sound principles of medical and surgical practice to avoid major difficulties. This article describes the complex pathophysiology, clinical course, and management principles of the oral and maxillofacial surgery patient with sickle cell disease.